Florida Capitol

Mar 2
2 min read

Updated: Mar 12

Hi friends,

This week I had the opportunity to attend Children’s Week at the Florida Capitol.

There is something powerful about watching hundreds of children from across our state fill the courtyard, explore the halls of government, and proudly represent their schools and communities.

It is a reminder that policy is not abstract. It is personal.

I met students who traveled hours to be there. I saw early learning programs showcasing their work. I watched children hold hands with teachers and mentors who believe in them. I stood alongside families who simply want their children to have every opportunity to thrive.

Because every child matters.

As a mom of four boys, including twins with autism, moments like this hit differently. I do not see statistics. I see futures.

Collier County is an A-rated district because we invest in strong foundations — academics, safety, family partnership, and responsible leadership.

Children’s Week reinforces something I believe deeply:

Decisions made in Tallahassee and at the local board table shape real classrooms, real families, and real outcomes.

That is why I show up.

That is why I speak up.

And that is why I am running — to keep Collier’s focus where it belongs: on students.

What This Means for Collier

As legislation moves forward this session, here’s what I’m watching:

• Funding that directly supports classrooms

• Policies that strengthen early learning

• Support for students with disabilities

• Maintaining local control over decisions that affect our schools

Innovation is important. Accountability is important. But at the center of all of it must be children.

Not politics. Not headlines.

Children.

You can see a few moments from Children’s Week below. It was inspiring to stand alongside so many families, educators, and advocates working toward the same goal.