Candidate Q&A: Erica Bushior, BOE

Several weeks ago, Stafford Free Press sent questions to the Selectmen, Planning & Zoning, Board of Education, and Board of Finance candidates via the Democratic Town Committee and the Republican Town Committee. We gave them a deadline of August 31 and a promise not to edit their answers (even for grammar and spelling). Now, we're sharing the answers we received.

Here are the answers provided by Erica Bushior, who is seeking re-election to the Board of Education.

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Q: Why have you decided to run for the Board of Education?

A: I am rerunning because there have been so many positive changes happening within SPS, that I want to see it through the next four years. 

Q: Have you previously been involved with the schools in any capacity? If so, please share your experience with us.

A: Yes, I have been involved within the schools. I am a present parent for all the functions the school offers. 

Q: Stafford’s schools are faced with many challenges. What do you believe is the most

pressing, and how can the BOE help address that challenge?

A: I think there are two really big issues that SPS faces. First is the lack of involvement with our youth. Our sports and music programs at the high school level are struggling because at the foundational level, students are not participating. We need to get kids off electronics and onto sports fields (or music classes). Students need to be practicing soft skills, learning about failure, getting back up, and pushing through. Those are life skills which help in the classroom and beyond. Second, I believe that we need to ensure that there are rigorous classes for students to take. I am glad that we have added more AP options for students, but also at the MS level added an advance math course for the 7th graders, too. 

Q: How can the BOE and the town collaborate to enhance outcomes for students?

A: It is essentially that the town and school collaborate. We all want the same outcome - a great school district to support Stafford's children. We must model working together for our children because that is what is needed to be a successful school district & town.