Undergraduate: Wayne State University (Detroit, MI), Bachelor of Public Affairs with a concentration in public management
Graduate: Indiana Wesleyan University (Marion, IN), Master of Public Administration with a concentration in non-profit management
Years as a Carmel Resident? 4
Community Involvement Activities
Youth Mentoring Initiative
Youth Assistance Program
Fishers Rotary
Leadership Experience
Young Non-Profit Professional Network of Central Indiana
Association of Fundraising Professionals, Indiana Chapter
Young Professionals of Central Indiana
1. What is your number one reason for wanting to serve on the school board?
I am a product of public schools, and honestly believe that my success as a young professional can be directly related to that experience. I love the City of Carmel, so much so that I purchased my first home to be in this city and district. I want my friends, neighbors, and children to have access to the best public schools in the state. My number one reason for wanting to serve is to ensure that Carmel Clay Schools continue to adapt to future changes and challenges. Today's students live in a complex, ever-changing world, and CCS must prepare them for a future where continuing education and jobs will look vastly different than they do today.
2. What role does policy play/have in the function of the board?
The Carmel Clay School Board is a governing body. As such, they are responsible not only for creating policy within the CCS district but also being aware of policy discussions and decisions at the state and national levels. School board trustees must advocate for the best interests of every public school student.
3. What legislative action at the state level would you support to improve education in our community.
Senate Bill 378 - This bill would require a school's health education to include mental health wellness education. Students must learn to understand and prioritize their mental health. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), many mental health conditions first appear in youth and young adults, with 50% of all conditions developing by age 14.
Senate Bill 456 - This bill would implement a new Indiana career explorer program. Although I attended university, two of my siblings have found great success in skilled trades. Students should have access to programs that allow them to explore all of their potential options beyond high school graduation.
House Bill 1126 - This bill relates to initial training for newly elected and re-elected school board members. Every school board member must understand the basics of their position to best perform and advocate for students and the district.
4. What do you think is the biggest issue facing your district?
Although unique to this year, the school's most significant issue is maintaining an appropriate response to the coronavirus pandemic. Recommendations and guidelines are updated continuously, and the district must be ready to pivot at a moment's notice to ensure a safe environment for students and teachers. Addressing these changes, in and of itself, is a challenge, but the district also faces significantly varied public opinion on the matter. Carmel Clay Schools must continue to respond to COVID-19 in a way that keeps everyone -- students, teachers, staff, and the community -- safe and healthy.
5. If you were elected what one thing would you like to accomplish during your term?
Last year voters passed the school safety referendum, which provided additional funding focused on school resource officers and mental health initiatives. Board members must carefully review this funding each year to ensure that community dollars best support students. The areas concerning mental health are of great importance and need additional expansion under the safety referendum. The partnership with Ascension St. Vincent, and training for parents and staff, are excellent stepping stones for a strong focus on the mental health of CCS students. As someone who has personally experienced struggles with mental health as a student, I would use my term to help CCS students feel safe, supported, and loved in school.
Preferred Contact Information (How do you want voters to contact you?)
Email: sampharris2@outlook.com Cell Phone (text or call): 248-891-7408
