Issues | Bradford For State Board of Education

Issues

Cathi's Priorities for District 6

Instilling Patriotism

The Kay Ivey administration has launched the “Strong Students. Strong Alabama. Strong Nation.” initiative, spotlighting a renewed focus on student achievement and civic responsibility across K-12 schools.(governor.alabama.gov) As part of her 2025 Back-to-School Tour, the message tied academic excellence to statewide and national success, aligning Alabama’s educational goals with the broader vision of America’s upcoming 250th birthday. (governor.alabama.gov) Under the theme “Instilling Patriotism,” the campaign encourages students to view their educational efforts not only as personal growth but as contributions to the common good of their state and country. The implication is that by building strong academic foundations, students help fortify Alabama’s role in a stronger nation.

The common thread that unites this diverse nation is love of country - patriotism. It is paramount that patriotic education for Alabama's students be more than just a focus for our 250th, but that it be restored and reinforced for our posterity. As a seasoned veteran, I certainly understand the importance of our children learning respect, responsibility, and to love this country for it is the greatest on Earth!

US Army Soldier in Universal Camouflage Uniform

Returning Back to Basics

In March of this year, our State School Board voted on recommendations to local school systems for new social studies textbooks. At the previous work session, debate was lively as some members raised concerns about the content and perspective presented in certain materials, while others argued their role was simply to ensure textbooks cover state standards. The vote was split, four in favor and four opposed. Governor Ivey voted in favor; therefore, these textbooks will appear in classrooms across our state at the start of the 2026/2027 school year. I believe “Back to Basics” means more than checking boxes — it means ensuring instructional materials are accurate, balanced, age-appropriate, and focused on teaching students essential knowledge of history, civics, and our nation’s founding principles. Our standards matter, but so does the substance behind them.

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Empowering Educators

The proposed Comprehensive School Counseling and Guidance Model is the first major update in more than 20 years, creating what is touted to be a more streamlined framework focused on academic development, career readiness, and foundational wellness. It is said to emphasize age-appropriate guidance, collaboration with parents, data-driven accountability, and a defined role for counselors centered on student success. I support strengthening academic and career guidance; however, I strongly oppose expanding classroom-based social-emotional learning frameworks that move schools beyond their core mission - to educate. Counseling should remain focused on student achievement and short-term support, while parents remain the primary influence in their children’s emotional and moral development.

View the AL State Board of Education February meeting for an overview of the 2025 Comprehensive School Counseling Program Model.

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Cathi's Priorities for District 6

Join the team. Get involved.

"Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same."

- Ronald Reagan

Cathi's Priorities for District 6

Join the team. Get involved.

"Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same." - Ronald Reagan

"Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same."

- Ronald Reagan