Shana Dukes

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Two-year Candidate: Shana Dukes

Posted: October 2, 2023

Shana DukesWhy do you want to serve on the ISD 199 School Board?
I believe that education is the foundation of a better society. As such, I am passionate about serving the community by becoming a member of the ISD 199 School Board. Having grown up in a small town in South Carolina that shares many similarities with Inver Grove Heights, I understand the importance of a strong and connected community. I am committed to being an example to all citizens that investing in the local school district is not just the responsibility of parents and students, but of everyone who wants to see the community thrive.

ISD 199 is a pillar of the Inver Grove Heights community, and I want to be the voice that represents the collective thoughts and concerns of all stakeholders in the district. My goal is to continue the great work that has been done before me while also bringing fresh ideas and perspectives to the table. I strongly believe in grounding my actions in the voice of the people and making sure that the needs of our students, teachers, and community members are always the top priority.

I am committed to making a positive impact on the lives of students, teachers, and the broader community. I believe that through collaboration, communication, and a commitment to excellence, we can create a brighter future for everyone in Inver Grove Heights.


What experience do you bring to this position?
With my work experience as a program coordinator and program director, as well as my eight years of military service, I have acquired valuable experience. My experience in these roles has included leading and managing teams as well as designing and implementing educational programs. I have gained a thorough understanding of the importance of effective communication, collaboration, and organization in achieving program objectives as a result of these experiences.

In addition to my experience in program coordination, I have also honed my skills in working with large data sets and conducting statistical analyses. I have created reports that synthesize complex data and present it clearly and concisely. I recognize the importance of data-driven decision-making and have worked hard to develop my skills in this area. Overall, I believe that my diverse experiences and skill set make me an ideal candidate for ISD 199.


What are the most important issues concerning the Inver Grove Heights School District and how would you address them?
As a candidate for the school board, one of my top priorities is to support teachers and staff by providing them with the necessary resources to offer the best possible education to students. I believe that by investing in our educators, we can ensure that our students receive the quality education they deserve.

Another critical issue that I am passionate about is closing the opportunity gap. It is no secret that our schools face significant challenges in this area, and I believe it is the responsibility of the school board to take action to address this issue. By providing support to all students, we can help them reach their full potential and ensure that every child has an equal opportunity to succeed.

In addition to these priorities, I am committed to fostering a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students, regardless of their background. This means creating policies that promote diversity and inclusivity, providing resources to address issues such as bullying and harassment, and ensuring that all students feel valued and supported. By working together, we can create a school system that is truly inclusive and supportive of all students.