Whitney Nieves Candidate for School Board in District 1: Millennial Mom

BAY COUNTY, FL - Whitney Nieves is running for School Board in District 1. She presents as a kind, well-educated, Christian, who is the wife of a retired Air Force veteran and mother of 2 well-behaved, school-age children. Nieves is a Millennial who is familiar with the public schools of today, not, as she stated, those of, “20 to 40 years ago.” “I have seen the patterns that are occurring RIGHT NOW.” Why are you seeking this specific political office, and what makes you the most qualified candidate? Nieves has seen parts of the world that most Americans have not and has learned what it means to appreciate and thrive in different walks of life. She recognizes that America’s public schools do not compare well to that in several other nations. Instead of staying at home and continuing to homeschool, she decided to step up and be a voice for struggling parents. “Bay County has a high population of at-risk and impoverished kids where the school IS their safe zone.” According to Bay District school reports, there are just over 27,500 students in public schools. https://bay.k12.fl.us/rack-cards In 2023 there were 1,371 students classified as “homeless” defined as they do not live with their biological parents. https://bay.k12.fl.us/public-info What are the most critical issues facing the citizens that you would represent? Nieves is concerned because, “school standards are continually lowered. While graduation rates are high, it is no secret among teachers and staff that these students graduating are reading at elementary levels.” “We cannot keep quality teachers. They are underpaid and under-appreciated. They find alternative careers just to be able to have peace of mind and to support their family.” “With each passing year, students come in more disrespectful, more entitled, and less literate.” Would you prioritize funding to rebuild and improve community centers and Title I schools such as Everitt Middle School or continue to focus on investing in the schools that are already “A” and “B” schools? “I would prioritize funding to rebuild and improve community centers and Title I schools such as Everitt Middle School. Investing in these schools can have a significant impact on the educational outcomes of students who may face additional challenges. By improving facilities and resources in these schools, we can create a more equitable learning environment and ensure that all students have access to a quality education.” Should schools comply with legislation that allows parents to file religious and medical exemptions? “Yes, schools should comply with legislation that allows parents to file religious and medical exemptions for vaccinations. It is important to respect and accommodate parents' religious and medical beliefs.” Should children be exposed to gender ideology in grades K to 12? “From a parent’s perspective - no.” Should children be exposed to the idea that they can change their gender in grades K to 12? “I, myself, as a teacher, do not have the time nor the desire to teach this to my students. It is not my place. It is not my expertise. I will, however, stand firm that as an educator, a secondary one especially, my classroom is a safe place for every student.” Do you support allowing teachers to tell students not to tell their parents what they discuss in school? “Short answer - no.” “On the other hand, I have had students confide in me. We, as teachers, wear many hats. I have had students vent their hearts out. Should anything concerning arise, I would route it appropriately, but too often these students do not have a supportive home front and truly just want someone to listen.” Currently, if a child cannot read or do math at grade level, he or she will progress to the next grade if the deficiency is documented. Should this practice continue? “While social promotion may provide temporary relief for struggling students, it can also perpetuate academic challenges in the long run. It is important for schools to provide adequate support and interventions for students who are struggling academically, rather than simply advancing them to the next grade level. Alternative approaches, such as targeted interventions and individualized learning plans, may be more effective in addressing students' academic needs while ensuring they are adequately prepared for future academic challenges.” What is your opinion of the issue of Campus Carry? “I support Campus Carry with proper training and regulation. Allowing licensed individuals to carry firearms on college campuses can enhance campus safety by providing a means of self-defense in potential threat situations. However, strict guidelines and training requirements should be in place to ensure the safe and responsible carrying of firearms on campus.” What is your understanding of state sovereignty as provided by the 10th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, and what current 10th Amendment issue is impacting the office for which you are running? “Understanding state sovereignty under the 10th Amendment is vital as a school board member because education policy is primarily a state and local responsibility. This allows states and local school districts to tailor their educational programs to meet the unique needs of their communities.” “A current 10th Amendment issue impacting school boards is the debate over federal versus state control of education standards and funding. For instance, the, Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), gives states more flexibility than its predecessor, No Child Left Behind.” However, there is still ongoing discussion about the extent of federal oversight and the conditions tied to federal funding. Balancing these responsibilities and ensuring that state and local entities retain sufficient control to address specific educational needs while meeting federal guidelines is a pressing 10th Amendment issue affecting school governance.” Outside of your job, what have you done to help your community in the last two years? Nieves served as an assistant Den Leader for her son’s Cub Scout troop. She enjoys, “working with youth and helping them be hands-on, especially those with ADHD.” She was the teacher lead in the PTSO at a previous school, planned Teacher Appreciation events and ran the Fall and Spring book fairs. (Bay County Coastal does not endorse candidates.)