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ENGAGED
Dr. Sarah James owns a preschool in downtown Ocala, is an active member of the Ocala / Marion County Chamber & Economic Partnership, is involved in multiple philanthropic causes, and is a PARENT of a Marion County student.
EDUCATED
Dr. Sarah James has a B.A. degree from the University of Florida, a M.Ed from the University of Central Florida, and an Ed.D in Educational Leadership from National Louis University
EXPERIENCED
Dr. Sarah James has 10+ years of experience in public and private education working as a teacher in grades Pre-K – Grade 10 and as an administrator at the Elementary and High School Levels.
Platform Focuses:
Recruit and Retain Quality Personnel: Continue to work collaboratively with the professional workforce, career and technical colleges, and local college and universities to recruit and retain qualified personnel at all levels throughout our school system. Ideas include further development of internships and externships, direct/guaranteed job placement once certifications are achieved, increased opportunity for dual enrollment at our technical colleges.
Prepare for Growth & Balance a Student First Budget: Work collaboratively with city and county growth management personnel to prepare and manage for the increased student enrollment that is expected with the spike in families moving to Marion County. Plan and adjust school closures, additions, and new campuses with a 10+ year growth plan in mind. When reviewing the budget and expenditures, I will continue to keep a student first mindset, watching closely how our expenditures will directly affect the quality of education that we provide to the students of Marion County.
Expanding Vocational Opportunities: As a collaborative team, the school board will work with the private sector to develop strong relationships that foster opportunity for our junior and senior students across the county to have access to practical, on the job experiences that will lead to job placement within a variety of trade fields upon high school graduation.