I am Diane Starkey, a longtime educator who is seeking to represent District 1 as a School Board member (District 2 and 3 voting districts). 

When I made the decision to run, I was asked numerous times, “Why would you want to run for School Board?” With 30+ years of experience, I feel vested in Warren County Schools. I currently have three grandchildren enrolled in our schools, with Mea Starkey, our senior, just graduating with the class of 2022.

Giving back? Yes, I would give back to the county by serving on a board that focuses on serving all children. I believe our current and future students should have a quality education. 

I have a wealth of knowledge and experience from the 30+ years within the schools serving in many different positions -- as school counselor, principal, assistant principal, teacher, tutoring students, and working Summer School Programs.

I have also served on the Warren County Commission’s Education Committee acting as Chairman. The committees I have been appointed to and have worked on while serving on the commission for three terms have given me insight on how the School Board, our Director of Schools, and the County Court all work together for the betterment of our schools. 

I’ve asked myself, “Can I make a difference?” Yes, I feel I have a vested interest in Warren County Schools. 

We have to ask ourselves, “What makes a successful School Board member?” As an effective School Board member, I must work with the other members of the School Board, our Director of Schools, the Community, School staff, and other stakeholders. I must be able to back up my decisions and actions with facts and data. The board’s actions, which I would be a part of, should be transparent and accountable to the public. When you choose a School Board member they should possess the following characteristics - integrity, competence, insight, dedication, effectiveness, and an open mind.

School safety should be a No. 1 priority. 

We have to provide an environment where teaching and learning are not distracted, where disruptions are minimized, where violence, drugs, bullying, and fear are not present. Our students cannot be discriminated against. When students feel safe and secure they are better able to learn and succeed and grow academically, emotionally, and socially. 

We also need more school counselors. We need bullying programs. We need drug programs. We must keep trying to help our students by offering them as much help and guidance as we can provide. Students bring their issues to school with them. We have to care for and nurture our young people to help them prepare for adulthood.

We need more money for our educators. So easy to say but so hard to do. We need competitive salaries and bonuses and better benefits for our educators. Our system needs to cover the cost of health insurance. Teachers are leaving because of benefits. 

I am asking for your vote! Change is good. Vote for Diane Starkey, School Board District 1.