Education
In Guilford County, where more than 60 % of students come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and our schools serve tens of thousands of young people. Education isn’t just a priority, it’s a necessity. Guilford County Schools have made real progress with a graduation rate above 90 % and academic gains across subjects, but ongoing challenges remain. Local leaders, especially County Commissioners, have a direct impact on education by shaping the county budget, allocating resources, and working with the school board to help fully fund our schools and address gaps in opportunity.
I believe every child deserves access to quality education, strong teachers, and safe classrooms. That’s why I will fight to make sure our schools have the support and funding they need, because when we invest in education, we invest in the future of Guilford County.
Livable Wages
I live and work in Guilford County District 7, and I see every day both the promise and the pressure facing our families. This district is made up of hardworking people, longtime residents, seniors on fixed incomes, young professionals, and families raising children while trying to stay afloat. Even though Guilford County’s median household income is around sixty six thousand dollars a year, too many families in District 7 are still struggling to afford housing, childcare, and healthcare. Nearly fifteen percent of our neighbors live below the poverty line, not because they are not working hard, but because wages and opportunity have not kept pace with the cost of living.
District 7 is also home to tremendous potential. Our community values education, with the vast majority of adults earning a high school diploma and many pursuing college or career training. I believe it is the responsibility of county leadership to turn that potential into real opportunity by strengthening workforce training, and creating pathways for entrepreneurs and small business-owners, and for hardworking people to work good jobs that pay livable wages. As County Commissioner, my focus is on making sure District 7 is not left behind, that growth reaches our neighborhoods, and that every family has a fair shot at stability, safety, and success.
Investing in Our Youth
I believe investing in our youth is one of the smartest and most important investments we can make in Guilford County. When young people have access to job training, paid work opportunities, mentorship, and real pathways into careers, they gain more than a paycheck. They gain confidence, purpose, and a connection to their community. Studies consistently show that youth employment and training programs help improve long term job outcomes, reduce involvement in the justice system, and strengthen neighborhoods by giving young people positive options and support.
Across Guilford County, youth benefit from workforce training, summer employment opportunities, and community based programs that help them build skills, explore careers, and prepare for adulthood. Other communities that have made sustained investments in youth jobs and training have seen stronger local economies, safer communities, and a more prepared workforce. As County Commissioner, I want to hear directly from the youth. I will work to expand youth job opportunities, strengthen training and employment pipelines, and ensure our young people are connected to the tools they need to succeed. When we invest in our youth today, we are building a stronger and more stable Guilford County for generations to come.
Safety
Public safety is a priority for every family in Guilford County, and I believe strong support for law enforcement and first responders is essential to keeping our communities safe. Guilford County continues to face serious public safety challenges, with hundreds of violent crimes reported each year, and our neighborhoods deserve leadership that takes safety seriously, while also working with Community Leaders and Organizers. Local law enforcement agencies serve a growing population while working through staffing shortages and increased demands on officers, making county level support more important than ever.
Our first responders, including police officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, and 911 dispatchers, show up every day to protect lives and property. Many departments across Guilford County have experienced staffing gaps and recruitment challenges, which place added pressure on those already serving and can impact response times and outcomes. Supporting public safety means investing in proper training, modern equipment, mental health resources, and recruitment strategies that help retain experienced professionals.
I believe safety and trust go hand in hand. When law enforcement and first responders are supported and communities are engaged, outcomes improve for everyone. As County Commissioner, I am committed to strengthening public safety through collaboration, accountability, and meaningful investment so that every neighborhood in District 7 feels protected, respected, and secure.