Diane Knight
Classroom First
Everything we do in this new school district should begin with one question: How will this affect the classroom?
As a classroom teacher of 36 years, I know firsthand the challenges educators face. Teachers choose this profession because they love children and want to help them succeed. But the reality of teaching often falls short of that ideal.
The Pressures Teachers Face
Class sizes are too large, with new students added throughout the year. Language barriers are growing, and teachers frequently rely on Google Translate just to communicate. Difficult behaviors are increasing, and many teachers face multiple challenging situations daily—all while under pressure to produce higher test scores.
This relentless stress is unsustainable. If we want excellent outcomes for students, we must first support the teachers who serve them.
Support from the Top Down
Teachers don’t need more paper and pencils. They need real support. That means:
- Smaller class sizes
- Trained paraprofessionals to assist with behavior and language needs
- Proactive—not reactive—staffing decisions
Budget Realities and Smart Priorities
Funding is limited. In Alpine School District, it would cost about $1 million per grade level to lower class sizes by just one student. We can’t make all the changes overnight—but we can prioritize actions that will have the greatest impact.
There is hope. The 2024–2025 budget includes funding for 118 full-time teachers (FTEs). But right now, these FTEs are often assigned just before school starts, causing last-minute disruptions. I’ve seen firsthand how late staffing decisions negatively affect students and teachers alike.
Building a New District the Right Way
I’m running for Aspen Peaks School Board Seat 1 to bring a classroom voice to the table. We have a rare opportunity to build something new. If we filter every decision through the lens of the classroom, we’ll set the foundation for real success.
Join Me in Building Something Remarkable
This isn’t just a campaign. It’s a commitment.
If you believe in classroom-first leadership—one that values parents, empowers educators, and puts students first—I ask for your support.
Vote Diane Knight for School Board Seat 1.
Let’s build a district where every child has the chance to shine.