Randy Hawley: Aiming to Propel SOCSD Board Leadership Forward

Age: 76

Time in the Verde Valley: Since 2012

Background: A retired educator with over four decades in public school education, I have served in various roles including teacher, guidance counselor, and principal. My tenure spans reputable school districts in the Milwaukee and Chicago suburbs, where I also held the position of associate superintendent.

Q: Why are you qualified to serve on the board?

A: My extensive experience as a teacher and administrator, coupled with my role as governing board president, equips me with a solid grasp of effective instructional practices. This background allows me to impact student learning positively and collaborate effectively with staff and administrative teams.

Q: What steps would you like to take to increase enrollment in SOCSD?

A: To enhance enrollment, we need to bolster our public relations efforts, highlighting the diverse opportunities available for students. This includes expanding K-12 activities, increasing preschool options, offering all-day kindergarten, and broadening our early college program with Yavapai College. Additionally, we should increase Advanced Placement courses and support affordable housing initiatives.

Q: How can the district better serve the needs of its English language learners?

A: We can improve support for English language learners by expanding tutoring across all academic programs. It’s essential to increase the urgency and availability of English instruction during the school day and provide opportunities for parents to learn English to engage more effectively in their children’s education.

Q: What additional public outreach does the board need to do regarding the former Big Park Community School?

A: The governing board must create avenues for community members to express their ideas and concerns. Incorporating this feedback into our decision-making process is crucial. We should continuously evaluate potential options for the future use of the former Big Park Community School.

Q: How do you think the voters should vote concerning the sale of the former Big Park Community School and why?

A: The board’s decision to place the option of selling Big Park to a private entity on the November ballot is a step towards exploring all potential futures for the property. This transparency allows voters to make informed choices.

School Board Election

Four candidates are vying for three seats on the Sedona-Oak Creek School District Governing Board: incumbent President Randy Hawley, challenger Sam Blom, and incumbents April Payne and David Price.