RSU 14 Board of Director duties
There are two vacancies for three-year terms representing Windham on the RSU 14 Board of Directors to be filled during the Nov. 4 election. Candidate Bradley Youngs withdrew from the race in September.
The RSU 14 Board of Directors concerns itself primarily with broad questions of policy rather than with administrative details. The application of policies is an administrative task to be performed by the Superintendent of Schools and his/her staff, who shall be held responsible for the effective administration and supervision of the entire school system. Members of the RSU 14 board have authority only when acting as a board legally in session. Board members are involved in policy making; choosing the superintendent; planning, setting goals, and appraising results; approving and adopting financial resources; negotiating and approving collective bargaining agreements.
There are two vacancies for three-year terms representing Windham on the RSU 14 Board of Directors to be filled during the Nov. 4 election. Candidate Bradley Youngs withdrew from the race in September.
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| Two candidates will be elected for three-year terms on the RSU 14 Board of Directors. Candidates from left, are Destiny Johnson, Adam Zajac, Christina Small, Megan Potter, and Matthew Irving. COURTESY PHOTOS |
Board members also set clear expectations/standards and adopt policies regarding instructional programs; determine school building needs; communicate with various constituencies; advocate for the needs of the students; establish procedures for the operation of the board; review and evaluate board operations and performance; choose board officers; approve the annual school calendar; establish and maintain effective board-superintendent relations; and work with along with authorizing school administration to work with town, county, and other government and non-government officials and agencies.
Candidate Profiles
MATTHEW IRVING
Occupation: Stay-at-home Dad
Previous Elected Experience: None
Why are you running for this position and please be specific:
I am running for School Board because I want the best future possible for our children. I am a graduate of public schools and a first-generation public university graduate, so I can vouch for the value of public education. Our kids need relevant skills and confidence in their ability to think critically in a tumultuous world. Our board needs people who engage respectfully with our community and contribute with well-researched ideas, which I will do.
In your opinion, what is the most pressing issue currently facing RSU 14 right now?
Taxes. As I speak with people in the community several issues have come up repeatedly including taxes, transportation, and test scores. It’s impossible to talk about our schools’ ability to function without discussing taxes. The cost of living is rising rapidly. Our schools are paying higher prices for goods, energy, and everything else just to maintain current function. Our teachers and residents are also paying more just to live. Our budget needs to be mindful of that.
What three things have you accomplished to benefit this community in the past three years?
I currently serve on two volunteer committees here in Windham, the parks advisory committee and the middle school repurposing committee. Both have been incredibly interesting and given me an opportunity to learn more about what our community values. Through this work I have had the privilege to tour and learn about everything from our fantastic outdoor opportunities to our community supports like the food pantry and healthy aging programs.
What do you think you will do better or differently than your opponents if you are elected?
As a former classroom counselor and community mental health worker, I have been on both sides of the table with schools many times. This experience also includes working to advocate for families from all backgrounds and belief systems. The unifying idea was and is that I am here to get the best outcome for children and families. I know I can work respectfully with anyone to find solutions because I have already done it.
What are the greatest economic, cultural, and social strengths of this community in your opinion, and how will you support those strengths if elected?
Windham’s greatest strength is its connectedness. Economically, we are a huge draw with folks coming to enjoy the lakes, river, and outdoors. Culturally and socially, we are fortunate to have residents who feel so invested in our community, whether through organizing youth sports, volunteering, or just taking an interest in our schools and town. Go to any sports game, Summerfest or parks and rec event and take the time to appreciate the fact that every part of our town is represented.
How would you rate the caliber of education currently offered to students by RSU 14?
The district has many great professionals and does provide a number of opportunities to learn practical skills and training. However, my conversations in the community tell me that many parents feel the district could do more to support students academically as well as behaviorally. We need to focus on early interventions and create more continuous support and communication as students move up.
What steps would you take on the RSU 14 Board of Directors to make eighth graders proficient in math and fourth graders proficient in reading for standardized testing?
If we want to see fourth and eighth graders succeed, we need to support the third and seventh graders that need it. Early and consistent intervention, attention, and support is an investment in any student’s future success. For instance, pre-k participation is one of the best indicators of fourth grade reading proficiency. Our solutions should be proactive and focused on better identifying those students who are at risk of stumbling.
What would you do if elected to support teachers and school administrators at RSU 14 schools to ensure that they give the best possible education to the students of this community?
I want to ensure that our teachers and administrators are able to show us the best of their abilities. That means ensuring a safe, adequately staffed, and supportive work environment, clear guidelines and roles, and good pay for good work. It also means that we must invest in their ability to keep their skills sharp through relevant and proven training. Everyone works best when they are set up to succeed.
ADAM ZAJAC
Occupation: Business owner
Previous Elected Experience: None
Why are you running for this position and please be specific:
Post-COVID, our kids’ education is slipping. Test scores prove fourth and eighth graders are reading and doing math below grade level. Meanwhile, the board protects sexualized books like “Gender Queer” even though parents want it out. Rather than complain, I built a shop and taught welding classes for free. I'm running to make schools focus on real life success, not agendas. Reward our great teachers. Kids deserve skills, not gender ideology.
In your opinion, what is the most pressing issue currently facing RSU 14 right now?
The most pressing issue? We're not educating kids, we're indoctrinating them. While fourth and eighth graders tank on reading and math, the system keeps shoving identity politics down their throats. Great teachers are exhausted from bureaucracy and the lousy ones? They stick around forever. I want shop class over gender class, algebra over activism. Let's spice up their future with actual skills, not social experiments.
What three things have you accomplished to benefit this community in the past three years?
1: Raised three sharp, funny, empathetic kids thriving in RSU 14. 2: Rallied parents and students to end mandatory masking. I helped give a voice to kids when the administration wouldn’t listen. 3: Built a full welding and machining shop that offered free classes, showing kids how to use real tools, learning real skills. Parents love it, kids are learning to weld, not just read about pronouns. That's impact.
What do you think you will do better or differently than your opponents if you are elected?
I'll bring math, reading, and common sense back. No more DEI, no boys crowding girls' spaces. I'll make sure buses run safely and on time. Drivers get respect, kids get order. I'll tie teacher pay to results, not years. I don't know all the reasons things are broken, but I won’t stop until I fix them. They talk. I act. And I won’t quit until it works. That's my promise.
What are the greatest economic, cultural, and social strengths of this community in your opinion, and how will you support those strengths if elected?
Economically, we have owners of machine shops, auto garages, electrical outfits … Folks who sign real paychecks. Culturally, we're direct, we're loyal, we're not afraid to work weekends. Socially, if someone's dog is missing, the whole community is on high alert. If elected, I'll get those garage owners into school with the kids, let them show what success looks like. We'll honor the path that stays here in Maine, just as much as the one that leaves. No shame, no hierarchy, just pride. That's our strength.
How would you rate the caliber of education currently offered to students by RSU 14?
4 out of 10. Kids aren't reading or adding at grade level. Buses are unreliable. Good teachers are leaving. We're letting boys compete in girls' sports and share bathrooms. And the school board pretends it's all fine. It's not. It's failing. Plain and simple.
What steps would you take on the RSU 14 Board of Directors to make eighth graders proficient in math and fourth graders proficient in reading for standardized testing?
To fix those test scores: cut three overpaid admins – that's nearly $1 million – and hand it straight to teachers who hit targets. $10K bonus for every teacher whose class jumps reading or math by 25 percent. If principals don't show gains in two years, they're gone – no golden parachute. Lock in daily math block, daily reading block, keep recess intact. Parents get live scores every week. No tax hikes. Just smarter money for smarter kids.
What would you do if elected to support teachers and school administrators at RSU 14 schools to ensure that they give the best possible education to the students of this community?
I'd back teachers by trimming admin fat-free up $1 million without touching taxes – and dump it into cash bonuses for real gains. Good admins get rewarded only if scores rise and halls stay safe. No more busy work forms. Let the best teachers design their own lessons. Remove the rest. That's real support. Resources, respect, and a boot for the lazy. No hikes. No excuses. Just better schools.
MEGAN POTTER
Occupation: VA Team Lead at Jackson and MacNichol
Previous Elected Experience: None
Why are you running for this position and please be specific:
I love this community, want to give back, and want every child to have the chance to thrive. As a parent of two students and someone shaped by my own challenges, I bring compassion, perspective, and resilience. Professionally, I lead a team at a local law firm, giving me strong leadership and problem-solving skills. I’ll listen, stay open-minded, and put students first while balancing families, teachers, and taxpayers.
In your opinion, what is the most pressing issue currently facing RSU 14 right now?
I think the budget is the biggest issue right now. The last one barely passed, higher property taxes are tough on families, mine included. We need to go line by line, cut where we can without hurting kids, and be open with the community about where the money goes. Good schools are important as is keeping it affordable. I want to help find that balance.
What three things have you accomplished to benefit this community in the past three years?
1. Organized and led a furniture drive through church to support Furniture Friends, an organization that provides gently used furniture to individuals and families in need.
2. Participated in PowerServe for the past two years, contributing to service projects that support the community.
3. Coordinated a holiday donation drive through church to support women and children residing at Crossroads in Windham, a rehabilitation center in the state that allows mothers to stay with their children during treatment.
What do you think you will do better or differently than your opponents if you are elected?
I believe what sets me apart is my willingness to listen and keep an open mind. I’m not a black-and-white thinker, and I don’t make decisions based on feelings or agendas. I look at all sides and work toward fair, thoughtful solutions. I bring a fresh perspective, a servant’s heart, and a clear focus on what matters most – our kids.
What are the greatest economic, cultural, and social strengths of this community in your opinion, and how will you support those strengths if elected?
I think our community’s biggest strengths are our people, our history, and our ability to be flexible. Economically, we’ve grown and welcomed new businesses while keeping our small-town feel. Culturally, we value our history, and socially, we take care of each other, neighbors show up when it matters. If I’m elected, I’ll work to support these strengths while keeping students and families at the center.
How would you rate the caliber of education currently offered to students by RSU 14?
RSU 14 provides a solid education, ranking 20th out of 100 Maine districts (Niche.com). However, Maine ranks 41st in the nation for K-12 education (U.S. News & World Report), and Windham High is 12,628 out of about 18,000 public high schools nationwide (U.S. News & World Report). While we’re doing okay locally, these numbers show we need to raise the caliber of education, so our students can compete nationally.
What steps would you take on the RSU 14 Board of Directors to make eighth graders proficient in math and fourth graders proficient in reading for standardized testing?
I believe catching struggles early is key. If a student needs help or is identified as someone who should have an IEP or 504 plan, that should be addressed quickly so they don’t fall behind. With timely support, whether small group help, tutoring, or stronger basics in reading and math – students have a better chance to succeed. Partnering with teachers and parents to spot challenges early will help more students reach grade level.
What would you do if elected to support teachers and school administrators at RSU 14 schools to ensure that they give the best possible education to the students of this community?
I believe the best way to support teachers and administrators is by truly listening to them. They know what they need to succeed, and we should create a space where they feel seen and valued. Competitive wages, strong benefits, and a positive work environment are also key. When teachers feel supported and happy in their roles, they can give students the best possible education.
DESTINY JOHNSON
Occupation: Small business co-owner, Youth assistant coach, and a mother of two.
Previous Elected Experience: First time candidate, active community volunteer.
Why are you running for this position and please be specific:
I’m running to protect students’ safety, fairness, and educational opportunities. As a mom and coach, I’ve seen firsthand how families feel left out when raising district concerns. I will not stand on the sidelines. Our children’s innocence, privacy, and safety are vital for our community’s future. I will work with the school board to restore trust, ensure parental voices are heard, and make sure academic priorities focus on every student being prepared for college or are career ready.
In your opinion, what is the most pressing issue currently facing RSU 14 right now?
The most pressing issue is restoring trust between all families and the district. Parents must have reasonable time to decide if school material is violating their sincerely held beliefs and they must know their girls’ rights to sports and privacy are secure. I will work with our school board to emphasize transparency, respect parental rights, and prioritize policies that put students’ safety, privacy, and education first.
What three things have you accomplished to benefit this community in the past three years?
● Volunteered as a youth sports assistant coach in Windham, teaching kids teamwork, resilience, and confidence.
● Supported small business growth through my family’s independent business in Windham, strengthening the local economy.
● For the last five years we have been part of Haven. During our time there, we taught various subjects including Reading, Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, Science, Fine Arts, Library, Health PE, Computer skills, and Masonry.
What do you think you will do better or differently than your opponents if you are elected?
I will:
● Bring independence and transparency while working great as a teammate with the full board.
● Actively listen to parents, vote to protect fairness in girls’ sports, and prioritize school safety procedures.
● Prioritize students so they are college and/or are career ready.
What are the greatest economic, cultural, and social strengths of this community in your opinion, and how will you support those strengths if elected?
Windham is strong because of its families, small businesses, and community strength. We are parents dedicated to our children, as neighbors we support each other and local, small businesses drive our economy. As a board member, I’ll strengthen school-parent relations, optimize our local business leaders, and maintain policies that reflect community values.
How would you rate the caliber of education currently offered to students by RSU 14?
RSU 14 has many talented teachers and staff committed to students, but overall performance is uneven. Some families feel academics are being overshadowed by social priorities. Stakeholders are providing feedback that indicates students are graduating unprepared for college or career. With better focus on core academics, less social programming, and respecting families’ independence in their values, RSU 14 can provide an opportunity for an excellent education to every student.
What steps would you take on the RSU 14 Board of Directors to make eighth graders proficient in math and fourth graders proficient in reading for standardized testing?
I will advocate for program reviews for math and reading, increase support for instruction development, and end failing forward. Providing parents with direct input and transparency about our educational materials will increase their engagement. By using outcome-based instruction like phonics, we can raise proficiency rates and prepare students for college or career readiness.
What would you do if elected to support teachers and school administrators at RSU 14 schools to ensure that they give the best possible education to the students of this community?
I will fairly negotiate with the Maine Education Association for proper teacher support. I will work with the school board to build a vision and goals that guide administrators toward prioritizing safety, fairness, and educational outcomes. By restoring trust with all parents, teachers, and administrators, we can work together to provide safe, fair, and excellent education for every student.
CHRISTINA SMALL
Occupation: Stay-at-home mom
Previous Elected Experience: Five years served on RSU 14 Board of Directors
Why are you running for this position and please be specific:
I'm running for reelection because I care deeply about this community and public education. My goal has only ever been to support the staff and students of RSU 14.
In your opinion, what is the most pressing issue currently facing RSU 14 right now?
Staffing remains an issue statewide as well as in our district. The public might be most aware of the struggle to hire bus drivers. There also are a dwindling pool of special education teachers in the area and less are entering the workforce each year.
What three things have you accomplished to benefit this community in the past three years?
I have donated hundreds of hours of my time to Windham Primary School in the last three years supporting both students and staff also participating in fundraising efforts. I coached three seasons of Girls on the Run which is an organization that teaches girls confidence building, goal setting and healthy relationships while encouraging physical activity. Currently I am working to implement a process to enhance communication between the board and community with the goal of a more transparent, collaborative budget process.
What do you think you will do better or differently than your opponents if you are elected?
I have an institutional knowledge and deep understanding of board role and responsibility that no one else running has. Through years of service, I've made significant connections within schools that help me gain insight into some of the challenges our district faces. More importantly, I don't utilize this position as a tool to accomplish my own ends. School board work is public service, and I treat it as such making all decisions in line with what is best for all students.
What are the greatest economic, cultural, and social strengths of this community in your opinion, and how will you support those strengths if elected?
Windham has a thriving commercial sector with both large and small businesses actively engaged in our community by regularly hosting fundraisers and sponsoring youth sports. I support the inclusion of curriculum skills that are relevant to today's job market so that Windham High School graduates become the next generation of workers and entrepreneurs.
How would you rate the caliber of education currently offered to students by RSU 14?
Our high school graduation rate has been consistently higher than state average which is made more impressive given that we have set a higher bar than many other schools for number of credits needed to receive a diploma. We have expanded pathways to success by accepting vocational programming as relevant class credits, creating more opportunities for students pursuing career and technical education. Additionally, Windham High School students can participate in Extended Learning Opportunities, which provide real-world experiences and meaningful career exploration. Given these strengths and strong outcomes, I would rate RSU 14's education as high-quality.
What steps would you take on the RSU 14 Board of Directors to make eighth graders proficient in math and fourth graders proficient in reading for standardized testing?
It's important to understand standardized test scores in context. They can be useful in identifying potential areas that need additional focus in the curriculum, however they don't measure crucial life skills like resilience, collaboration, communication and critical thinking. Statewide, overall academic achievement is negatively impacted by an increase in student mental health challenges, increase in classroom behaviors and continued chronic absenteeism. Many parents no longer have the time or resources to support their students at home, leaving schools to address these complex societal problems. Recognizing that improving test scores requires addressing these underlying issues, I have supported additional funds for BARR implementation which is a model that actively engages families and improves student connection in school which has shown to reduce absenteeism, disruptive behaviors and academic failures. I also support continued funding for instructional interventionists who provide the individualized support students need.
What would you do if elected to support teachers and school administrators at RSU 14 schools to ensure that they give the best possible education to the students of this community?
Respect goes a long way. Recognizing that more than half of RSU 14's teachers and administrators hold master's degrees or higher, I treat them as the experts they are in their respective fields. Rather than micromanaging them, I work to understand how each position contributes to student learning and overall school operations. My primary responsibility as a board member is to ensure our educators have access to the tools, resources, and support systems they need to excel at what they do best: educate our children.
MATTHEW IRVING
Occupation: Stay-at-home Dad
Previous Elected Experience: None
Why are you running for this position and please be specific:
I am running for School Board because I want the best future possible for our children. I am a graduate of public schools and a first-generation public university graduate, so I can vouch for the value of public education. Our kids need relevant skills and confidence in their ability to think critically in a tumultuous world. Our board needs people who engage respectfully with our community and contribute with well-researched ideas, which I will do.
In your opinion, what is the most pressing issue currently facing RSU 14 right now?
Taxes. As I speak with people in the community several issues have come up repeatedly including taxes, transportation, and test scores. It’s impossible to talk about our schools’ ability to function without discussing taxes. The cost of living is rising rapidly. Our schools are paying higher prices for goods, energy, and everything else just to maintain current function. Our teachers and residents are also paying more just to live. Our budget needs to be mindful of that.
What three things have you accomplished to benefit this community in the past three years?
I currently serve on two volunteer committees here in Windham, the parks advisory committee and the middle school repurposing committee. Both have been incredibly interesting and given me an opportunity to learn more about what our community values. Through this work I have had the privilege to tour and learn about everything from our fantastic outdoor opportunities to our community supports like the food pantry and healthy aging programs.
What do you think you will do better or differently than your opponents if you are elected?
As a former classroom counselor and community mental health worker, I have been on both sides of the table with schools many times. This experience also includes working to advocate for families from all backgrounds and belief systems. The unifying idea was and is that I am here to get the best outcome for children and families. I know I can work respectfully with anyone to find solutions because I have already done it.
What are the greatest economic, cultural, and social strengths of this community in your opinion, and how will you support those strengths if elected?
Windham’s greatest strength is its connectedness. Economically, we are a huge draw with folks coming to enjoy the lakes, river, and outdoors. Culturally and socially, we are fortunate to have residents who feel so invested in our community, whether through organizing youth sports, volunteering, or just taking an interest in our schools and town. Go to any sports game, Summerfest or parks and rec event and take the time to appreciate the fact that every part of our town is represented.
How would you rate the caliber of education currently offered to students by RSU 14?
The district has many great professionals and does provide a number of opportunities to learn practical skills and training. However, my conversations in the community tell me that many parents feel the district could do more to support students academically as well as behaviorally. We need to focus on early interventions and create more continuous support and communication as students move up.
What steps would you take on the RSU 14 Board of Directors to make eighth graders proficient in math and fourth graders proficient in reading for standardized testing?
If we want to see fourth and eighth graders succeed, we need to support the third and seventh graders that need it. Early and consistent intervention, attention, and support is an investment in any student’s future success. For instance, pre-k participation is one of the best indicators of fourth grade reading proficiency. Our solutions should be proactive and focused on better identifying those students who are at risk of stumbling.
What would you do if elected to support teachers and school administrators at RSU 14 schools to ensure that they give the best possible education to the students of this community?
I want to ensure that our teachers and administrators are able to show us the best of their abilities. That means ensuring a safe, adequately staffed, and supportive work environment, clear guidelines and roles, and good pay for good work. It also means that we must invest in their ability to keep their skills sharp through relevant and proven training. Everyone works best when they are set up to succeed.
ADAM ZAJAC
Occupation: Business owner
Previous Elected Experience: None
Why are you running for this position and please be specific:
Post-COVID, our kids’ education is slipping. Test scores prove fourth and eighth graders are reading and doing math below grade level. Meanwhile, the board protects sexualized books like “Gender Queer” even though parents want it out. Rather than complain, I built a shop and taught welding classes for free. I'm running to make schools focus on real life success, not agendas. Reward our great teachers. Kids deserve skills, not gender ideology.
In your opinion, what is the most pressing issue currently facing RSU 14 right now?
The most pressing issue? We're not educating kids, we're indoctrinating them. While fourth and eighth graders tank on reading and math, the system keeps shoving identity politics down their throats. Great teachers are exhausted from bureaucracy and the lousy ones? They stick around forever. I want shop class over gender class, algebra over activism. Let's spice up their future with actual skills, not social experiments.
What three things have you accomplished to benefit this community in the past three years?
1: Raised three sharp, funny, empathetic kids thriving in RSU 14. 2: Rallied parents and students to end mandatory masking. I helped give a voice to kids when the administration wouldn’t listen. 3: Built a full welding and machining shop that offered free classes, showing kids how to use real tools, learning real skills. Parents love it, kids are learning to weld, not just read about pronouns. That's impact.
What do you think you will do better or differently than your opponents if you are elected?
I'll bring math, reading, and common sense back. No more DEI, no boys crowding girls' spaces. I'll make sure buses run safely and on time. Drivers get respect, kids get order. I'll tie teacher pay to results, not years. I don't know all the reasons things are broken, but I won’t stop until I fix them. They talk. I act. And I won’t quit until it works. That's my promise.
What are the greatest economic, cultural, and social strengths of this community in your opinion, and how will you support those strengths if elected?
Economically, we have owners of machine shops, auto garages, electrical outfits … Folks who sign real paychecks. Culturally, we're direct, we're loyal, we're not afraid to work weekends. Socially, if someone's dog is missing, the whole community is on high alert. If elected, I'll get those garage owners into school with the kids, let them show what success looks like. We'll honor the path that stays here in Maine, just as much as the one that leaves. No shame, no hierarchy, just pride. That's our strength.
How would you rate the caliber of education currently offered to students by RSU 14?
4 out of 10. Kids aren't reading or adding at grade level. Buses are unreliable. Good teachers are leaving. We're letting boys compete in girls' sports and share bathrooms. And the school board pretends it's all fine. It's not. It's failing. Plain and simple.
What steps would you take on the RSU 14 Board of Directors to make eighth graders proficient in math and fourth graders proficient in reading for standardized testing?
To fix those test scores: cut three overpaid admins – that's nearly $1 million – and hand it straight to teachers who hit targets. $10K bonus for every teacher whose class jumps reading or math by 25 percent. If principals don't show gains in two years, they're gone – no golden parachute. Lock in daily math block, daily reading block, keep recess intact. Parents get live scores every week. No tax hikes. Just smarter money for smarter kids.
What would you do if elected to support teachers and school administrators at RSU 14 schools to ensure that they give the best possible education to the students of this community?
I'd back teachers by trimming admin fat-free up $1 million without touching taxes – and dump it into cash bonuses for real gains. Good admins get rewarded only if scores rise and halls stay safe. No more busy work forms. Let the best teachers design their own lessons. Remove the rest. That's real support. Resources, respect, and a boot for the lazy. No hikes. No excuses. Just better schools.
MEGAN POTTER
Occupation: VA Team Lead at Jackson and MacNichol
Previous Elected Experience: None
Why are you running for this position and please be specific:
I love this community, want to give back, and want every child to have the chance to thrive. As a parent of two students and someone shaped by my own challenges, I bring compassion, perspective, and resilience. Professionally, I lead a team at a local law firm, giving me strong leadership and problem-solving skills. I’ll listen, stay open-minded, and put students first while balancing families, teachers, and taxpayers.
In your opinion, what is the most pressing issue currently facing RSU 14 right now?
I think the budget is the biggest issue right now. The last one barely passed, higher property taxes are tough on families, mine included. We need to go line by line, cut where we can without hurting kids, and be open with the community about where the money goes. Good schools are important as is keeping it affordable. I want to help find that balance.
What three things have you accomplished to benefit this community in the past three years?
1. Organized and led a furniture drive through church to support Furniture Friends, an organization that provides gently used furniture to individuals and families in need.
2. Participated in PowerServe for the past two years, contributing to service projects that support the community.
3. Coordinated a holiday donation drive through church to support women and children residing at Crossroads in Windham, a rehabilitation center in the state that allows mothers to stay with their children during treatment.
What do you think you will do better or differently than your opponents if you are elected?
I believe what sets me apart is my willingness to listen and keep an open mind. I’m not a black-and-white thinker, and I don’t make decisions based on feelings or agendas. I look at all sides and work toward fair, thoughtful solutions. I bring a fresh perspective, a servant’s heart, and a clear focus on what matters most – our kids.
What are the greatest economic, cultural, and social strengths of this community in your opinion, and how will you support those strengths if elected?
I think our community’s biggest strengths are our people, our history, and our ability to be flexible. Economically, we’ve grown and welcomed new businesses while keeping our small-town feel. Culturally, we value our history, and socially, we take care of each other, neighbors show up when it matters. If I’m elected, I’ll work to support these strengths while keeping students and families at the center.
How would you rate the caliber of education currently offered to students by RSU 14?
RSU 14 provides a solid education, ranking 20th out of 100 Maine districts (Niche.com). However, Maine ranks 41st in the nation for K-12 education (U.S. News & World Report), and Windham High is 12,628 out of about 18,000 public high schools nationwide (U.S. News & World Report). While we’re doing okay locally, these numbers show we need to raise the caliber of education, so our students can compete nationally.
What steps would you take on the RSU 14 Board of Directors to make eighth graders proficient in math and fourth graders proficient in reading for standardized testing?
I believe catching struggles early is key. If a student needs help or is identified as someone who should have an IEP or 504 plan, that should be addressed quickly so they don’t fall behind. With timely support, whether small group help, tutoring, or stronger basics in reading and math – students have a better chance to succeed. Partnering with teachers and parents to spot challenges early will help more students reach grade level.
What would you do if elected to support teachers and school administrators at RSU 14 schools to ensure that they give the best possible education to the students of this community?
I believe the best way to support teachers and administrators is by truly listening to them. They know what they need to succeed, and we should create a space where they feel seen and valued. Competitive wages, strong benefits, and a positive work environment are also key. When teachers feel supported and happy in their roles, they can give students the best possible education.
DESTINY JOHNSON
Occupation: Small business co-owner, Youth assistant coach, and a mother of two.
Previous Elected Experience: First time candidate, active community volunteer.
Why are you running for this position and please be specific:
I’m running to protect students’ safety, fairness, and educational opportunities. As a mom and coach, I’ve seen firsthand how families feel left out when raising district concerns. I will not stand on the sidelines. Our children’s innocence, privacy, and safety are vital for our community’s future. I will work with the school board to restore trust, ensure parental voices are heard, and make sure academic priorities focus on every student being prepared for college or are career ready.
In your opinion, what is the most pressing issue currently facing RSU 14 right now?
The most pressing issue is restoring trust between all families and the district. Parents must have reasonable time to decide if school material is violating their sincerely held beliefs and they must know their girls’ rights to sports and privacy are secure. I will work with our school board to emphasize transparency, respect parental rights, and prioritize policies that put students’ safety, privacy, and education first.
What three things have you accomplished to benefit this community in the past three years?
● Volunteered as a youth sports assistant coach in Windham, teaching kids teamwork, resilience, and confidence.
● Supported small business growth through my family’s independent business in Windham, strengthening the local economy.
● For the last five years we have been part of Haven. During our time there, we taught various subjects including Reading, Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, Science, Fine Arts, Library, Health PE, Computer skills, and Masonry.
What do you think you will do better or differently than your opponents if you are elected?
I will:
● Bring independence and transparency while working great as a teammate with the full board.
● Actively listen to parents, vote to protect fairness in girls’ sports, and prioritize school safety procedures.
● Prioritize students so they are college and/or are career ready.
What are the greatest economic, cultural, and social strengths of this community in your opinion, and how will you support those strengths if elected?
Windham is strong because of its families, small businesses, and community strength. We are parents dedicated to our children, as neighbors we support each other and local, small businesses drive our economy. As a board member, I’ll strengthen school-parent relations, optimize our local business leaders, and maintain policies that reflect community values.
How would you rate the caliber of education currently offered to students by RSU 14?
RSU 14 has many talented teachers and staff committed to students, but overall performance is uneven. Some families feel academics are being overshadowed by social priorities. Stakeholders are providing feedback that indicates students are graduating unprepared for college or career. With better focus on core academics, less social programming, and respecting families’ independence in their values, RSU 14 can provide an opportunity for an excellent education to every student.
What steps would you take on the RSU 14 Board of Directors to make eighth graders proficient in math and fourth graders proficient in reading for standardized testing?
I will advocate for program reviews for math and reading, increase support for instruction development, and end failing forward. Providing parents with direct input and transparency about our educational materials will increase their engagement. By using outcome-based instruction like phonics, we can raise proficiency rates and prepare students for college or career readiness.
What would you do if elected to support teachers and school administrators at RSU 14 schools to ensure that they give the best possible education to the students of this community?
I will fairly negotiate with the Maine Education Association for proper teacher support. I will work with the school board to build a vision and goals that guide administrators toward prioritizing safety, fairness, and educational outcomes. By restoring trust with all parents, teachers, and administrators, we can work together to provide safe, fair, and excellent education for every student.
CHRISTINA SMALL
Occupation: Stay-at-home mom
Previous Elected Experience: Five years served on RSU 14 Board of Directors
Why are you running for this position and please be specific:
I'm running for reelection because I care deeply about this community and public education. My goal has only ever been to support the staff and students of RSU 14.
In your opinion, what is the most pressing issue currently facing RSU 14 right now?
Staffing remains an issue statewide as well as in our district. The public might be most aware of the struggle to hire bus drivers. There also are a dwindling pool of special education teachers in the area and less are entering the workforce each year.
What three things have you accomplished to benefit this community in the past three years?
I have donated hundreds of hours of my time to Windham Primary School in the last three years supporting both students and staff also participating in fundraising efforts. I coached three seasons of Girls on the Run which is an organization that teaches girls confidence building, goal setting and healthy relationships while encouraging physical activity. Currently I am working to implement a process to enhance communication between the board and community with the goal of a more transparent, collaborative budget process.
What do you think you will do better or differently than your opponents if you are elected?
I have an institutional knowledge and deep understanding of board role and responsibility that no one else running has. Through years of service, I've made significant connections within schools that help me gain insight into some of the challenges our district faces. More importantly, I don't utilize this position as a tool to accomplish my own ends. School board work is public service, and I treat it as such making all decisions in line with what is best for all students.
What are the greatest economic, cultural, and social strengths of this community in your opinion, and how will you support those strengths if elected?
Windham has a thriving commercial sector with both large and small businesses actively engaged in our community by regularly hosting fundraisers and sponsoring youth sports. I support the inclusion of curriculum skills that are relevant to today's job market so that Windham High School graduates become the next generation of workers and entrepreneurs.
How would you rate the caliber of education currently offered to students by RSU 14?
Our high school graduation rate has been consistently higher than state average which is made more impressive given that we have set a higher bar than many other schools for number of credits needed to receive a diploma. We have expanded pathways to success by accepting vocational programming as relevant class credits, creating more opportunities for students pursuing career and technical education. Additionally, Windham High School students can participate in Extended Learning Opportunities, which provide real-world experiences and meaningful career exploration. Given these strengths and strong outcomes, I would rate RSU 14's education as high-quality.
What steps would you take on the RSU 14 Board of Directors to make eighth graders proficient in math and fourth graders proficient in reading for standardized testing?
It's important to understand standardized test scores in context. They can be useful in identifying potential areas that need additional focus in the curriculum, however they don't measure crucial life skills like resilience, collaboration, communication and critical thinking. Statewide, overall academic achievement is negatively impacted by an increase in student mental health challenges, increase in classroom behaviors and continued chronic absenteeism. Many parents no longer have the time or resources to support their students at home, leaving schools to address these complex societal problems. Recognizing that improving test scores requires addressing these underlying issues, I have supported additional funds for BARR implementation which is a model that actively engages families and improves student connection in school which has shown to reduce absenteeism, disruptive behaviors and academic failures. I also support continued funding for instructional interventionists who provide the individualized support students need.
What would you do if elected to support teachers and school administrators at RSU 14 schools to ensure that they give the best possible education to the students of this community?
Respect goes a long way. Recognizing that more than half of RSU 14's teachers and administrators hold master's degrees or higher, I treat them as the experts they are in their respective fields. Rather than micromanaging them, I work to understand how each position contributes to student learning and overall school operations. My primary responsibility as a board member is to ensure our educators have access to the tools, resources, and support systems they need to excel at what they do best: educate our children.
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