ANAMIKA BHATNAGAR
for Croton-Harmon Board of Education
ADVOCACY • INCLUSION • INNOVATION
for the benefit of all students
My Vision for Croton-Harmon Schools
INNOVATION
We’re at a pivotal moment in our school district. We’ve welcomed a new superintendent, Stephen Walker, who has set a course that anticipates change, allows for thoughtful risk-taking, and considers equity at every turn, while ensuring our students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for life after graduation. Our teachers are innovating in the classroom by pursuing their passions and sharing that enthusiasm with their students.
TRANSFORMATION
With the community’s recent approval of the Future Facilities capital project bond, we’re about to embark on a transformational upgrade of all three school buildings, which will benefit academics, the arts, and athletics. I hope to join the Board of Education to work collaboratively with the district and our local community to keep moving our schools forward, capitalizing on these successes so they positively impact every student.
SUPPORT FOR WELL-BEING
When they were at CET, my own kids taught me about having a growth mindset, so I recognize that we are not where we need to be . . . yet. Our teachers and administrators are telling us that the scaffolding provided by social-emotional learning needs to be bolstered with additional resources for mental health and well-being. I’ve heard from members of our school community, which continues to be socio-economically and linguistically diverse, that their children require access to different kinds of academic and social supports to succeed.
INCLUSION
We’re still learning as a district what these needs are, and how best to meet them. We do know, however, that it remains crucial to our students’ success to see themselves reflected in their everyday school experiences, whether through connection with a teacher or staff member, or through curriculum, or an extracurricular project or activity.
ADVOCACY AND COMMUNICATION
If elected, I will prioritize these and other initiatives to ensure that our students can all find success in the school environment. I will also continue to connect with parents, families, and others in the community to understand their views and give voice to them. In any community as vibrant and engaged as Croton, there will be differences of opinion and perspective. Asking questions and encouraging reflection are just two steps on the path to achieving consensus as we work together to support our students.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
A strong school system can only exist with the support of an engaged local community, so I’m asking for your support and your vote on Tuesday, May 16, 2023.