Denise D'Angelo Steele

Denise D'Angelo was born in Columbus, Ohio. She graduated from Grove City High School. She earned an associate degree from Columbus State Community College in 2004. Her career experience includes being a small business owner.[1]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a dedicated mother who cherishes her family above all else. My loving husband and three wonderful sons are the center of my world. Alongside my role as a stay at home mom, I own and operate my own small business, which has taught me the value of hard work, responsibility, and financial stewardship.

In my free time, I enthusiastically volunteer as a coach for both soccer and basketball teams in our community, instilling teamwork and discipline in young athletes. I also proudly support the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), receiving the Helping Hands Award in 2021.

My conservative values guide my everyday life, emphasizing personal responsibility, strong moral principles, and fiscal discipline. I believe that these values can positively influence our educational system. That's why I am running for the school board, aiming to bring accountability, safety and transparency to our schools. I want to ensure that our children receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in the real world while upholding the values that make our community strong. Together, we can build a brighter future for our children and our community.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Academic Excellence: As a concerned mom, I'm committed to ensuring that our schools prioritize academic achievement. I will work tirelessly to improve curriculum standards, support teachers, and provide resources to help our students excel. Every child deserves a high-quality education that prepares them for a bright future.Enhanced School Safety: I understand the paramount importance of a safe learning environment. I will advocate for increased security measures which includes tornado and active shooter drills, locked doors going into and in buildings, and increased nursing staff in schools. Parents should have peace of mind, knowing their children are safe and protected at school.Transparency and Parental Involvement: I believe in the fundamental role of parents in their children's education. I will champion transparency in school policies and finances, ensuring parents have access to information and a voice in decision-making. Together, we can build a school system that values parental involvement and respects conservative values.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

As a committed mom, I advocate for parental choice in education, emphasizing transparency and alignment with family values. School safety is paramount, and I support measures like enhanced security, nursing staff, and anti-bullying programs. Preserving family values is crucial, protecting parental rights and consent in sensitive topics in schools. Fiscal responsibility is vital for families, advocating for lower taxes and responsible spending. I insist on parental consent for minors in medical decisions and surveys, respecting privacy. Transparency in government and education is vital, ensuring parents have access to policy information and fostering accountability. My advocacy centers on empowering families, safeguarding children, and upholding American values. I champion limited government intervention, fiscal responsibility, and providing parents with the tools to raise children according to their beliefs.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I deeply admire and look up to my mother as an extraordinary role model. She has not only been a loving and caring mother but has also dedicated nearly five decades of her life as a nurse, which was not only a passion for her from a young girl but also a means to support her family. My mother's commitment to her profession and her family is awe-inspiring. She embodies the qualities of dedication, hard work, and selflessness. Her unwavering dedication to nursing, a demanding and noble profession, has not only provided for our family but has also made a positive impact on countless lives through her compassionate care. One of the most remarkable traits of my mother is her willingness to help anyone in need. She has a heart of gold and is always ready to lend a helping hand, whether it's a family member, friend, or even a stranger. Her kindness and generosity have touched the lives of many, leaving a lasting impression of love and compassion. As a grandmother, my mother takes immense pride in her role, cherishing her 13 grandchildren with boundless love and warmth. She embodies the essence of family and is a devoted daughter, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, and great aunt. Her presence is a source of strength and support for our entire extended family, and her love and guidance have shaped us into better individuals. I aspire to follow in my mother's footsteps, not only as a dedicated and loving parent but also as a compassionate and selfless member of the community. Her example has taught me the value of hard work, kindness, and the importance of family bonds. Just as she has supported her children in their life adventures, I hope to do the same for my family, always striving to emulate her remarkable qualities and make her proud. My mother is not only my hero but a shining example of the kind of person I aim to become.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

As a nonpartisan school board candidate, I firmly believe that certain characteristics and principles are essential for an elected official to effectively serve their constituents. Firstly, integrity is paramount. Elected officials must uphold high ethical standards, be honest, and act with transparency to build trust with the community they represent. Additionally, a commitment to fiscal responsibility is crucial, especially in managing public resources efficiently and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely.

Secondly, elected officials should prioritize limited government intervention, recognizing the value of individual liberties and personal responsibility. This includes advocating for policies that empower parents to make choices about their children's education and respecting the rights of families to instill their values without unnecessary government interference. Moreover, a dedication to open and respectful dialogue is essential. Elected officials should be willing to listen to diverse perspectives, engage in civil discourse, and work collaboratively to find common ground and solutions that benefit the community as a whole. Overall, these characteristics and principles guide my approach, emphasizing honesty, fiscal responsibility, limited government intervention, and open dialogue to best serve our constituents.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

I believe that the core responsibilities of someone elected to a school board are centered around the well-being and success of our children and the community at large. First and foremost, ensuring that our schools provide a safe and nurturing environment for students is paramount. This includes prioritizing policies and practices that promote physical and emotional well-being, as well as school safety measures to protect our children.

Secondly, an elected school board member must advocate for a high-quality education that prepares students for success in life. This involves working to maintain high academic standards, supporting effective teaching methods, and ensuring that curriculum aligns with community values while also preparing students for the challenges of the modern world. Additionally, fiscal responsibility is essential. Elected board members must carefully steward taxpayer dollars, making efficient and transparent budget decisions to maximize resources for educational purposes. Lastly, fostering open and respectful communication between the school district and the community is vital. An elected official should be a bridge between the district and parents, teachers, and community members, ensuring that their voices are heard and that decisions are made collaboratively in the best interest of our children and community.

What is the primary job of a school board member in your view?

From my perspective as a mom and community member, the primary job of a school board member is to represent the interests and values of parents and the broader community in shaping the direction of the local school district. This includes:

Accountability: Ensuring that the school district operates efficiently, transparently, and in a fiscally responsible manner. School board members should hold the administration accountable for the prudent use of taxpayer funds.

Curriculum and Values: Overseeing curriculum choices to ensure they align with the values and beliefs of the community. Parents in the community often emphasize the importance of everyone's values and want to ensure that these are respected in the classroom.

Parental Rights: Protecting the rights of parents to have a say in their children's education, including the ability to opt out of certain lessons or activities that conflict with their beliefs.

Safety: Prioritizing the safety and well-being of students by supporting policies and measures that create a secure learning environment.

Transparency: Promoting transparency in decision-making, so parents and community members can easily access information about school policies, budgets, and board actions.

Local Control: Resisting federal or state overreach into local education decisions, advocating for greater local control and flexibility.

Listening to Constituents: Actively seeking input from parents, teachers, and community members to make informed decisions that reflect the desires and concerns of the community.

In essence, I view a school board member as a representative who safeguards the interests of families, upholds community values, and ensures that the education system respects the rights and beliefs of parents while maintaining fiscal responsibility and transparency.

Who are your constituents?

South-Western City School District school board represents a diverse group of individuals living in the 119-square-mile area of Franklin County, primarily on the southwestern side of Central Ohio. This region includes a significant portion of the City of Columbus and Grove City. The school district is one of the largest in both the county and the state, serving around 22,000 students and their families across 31 school buildings. These constituents encompass parents, students, teachers, and various community members residing within the district, all of whom are directly impacted by the policies and decisions made by the school board.

How would you support the diverse needs of your district’s students, faculty, staff, and community?

As a school board member, my approach centers on addressing the diverse needs of our district's stakeholders:

Parental Choice: I advocate for policies granting parents the freedom to choose the best education for their children, be it public, charter, private, or homeschooling, fostering diversity in educational models.

Curriculum Balancing: Ensure curriculum aligns with community values while maintaining academic excellence, respecting tradition, and embracing cultural diversity.

Community Involvement: Actively engage parents, teachers, and the community to incorporate diverse perspectives in decision-making.

Fiscal Responsibility: My focus is responsible budgeting, using taxpayer dollars efficiently, and reducing the tax burden while directing resources where needed.

Local Control: I advocate for local autonomy in education decisions, resisting undue state or federal influence to tailor policies to our community's unique needs.

Educator Support: Championing professional development for faculty and staff to address diverse student needs.

Inclusivity: Promoting inclusivity and respect for all students and staff, regardless of background or beliefs, to create a welcoming environment.

Accountability: Holding the district accountable with transparency and responsible decision-making across all operations.

In essence, I will strive to balance tradition with diversity, prioritize parental choice, ensure safety, and engage our community to make well-informed decisions that benefit everyone in our district, from students and faculty to staff and residents.

How will you build relationships with members of the broader community? Which groups, organizations, stakeholders will you specifically target?

As a school board member, my commitment to effective governance will invovle building robust relationships within our broader community. I will engage with various key stakeholders, including PTAs, local businesses, faith-based organizations, nonprofits, community centers, local government, cultural and arts groups, and more. Through active participation, collaboration, and a commitment to listening, I aim to foster strong relationships that serve the best interests of our students and the entire community, ensuring that diverse voices are valued and heard.

What constitutes good teaching? How will you measure this? How will you support advanced teaching approaches?

Good teaching is characterized by several key elements that contribute to effective student learning and development. Firstly, it involves clear and engaging communication, where teachers convey complex concepts in a way that is accessible to students and fosters their understanding. Secondly, good teaching encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills, challenging students to think beyond memorization and encouraging them to apply knowledge to real-world situations. Thirdly, it creates a positive and inclusive classroom environment, where students feel safe to ask questions, express their thoughts, and collaborate with peers. Lastly, good teaching is adaptable, recognizing that each student is unique and may require different approaches to learning.

To measure good teaching, I propose a comprehensive evaluation system that includes multiple stakeholders. This would involve classroom observations by experienced educators, student feedback through surveys, and assessment of student performance and growth over time. Additionally, peer reviews and self-assessment by teachers can provide valuable insights. Recognizing and supporting advanced teaching approaches involves providing professional development opportunities, mentoring programs, and access to the latest research and educational technologies. It also means valuing and rewarding innovative teaching practices that lead to improved student outcomes, fostering a culture of continuous improvement among educators. Ultimately, supporting advanced teaching approaches is essential for ensuring that our students receive a high-quality education that prepares them for the challenges of the future.

In what areas would you like to expand curriculum? For example, do you see a need for advanced technical training or apprenticeships? What sort of innovative programming would you advance if given the opportunity?

Expanding the curriculum to meet the evolving needs of students and the job market is crucial. I see a need for advanced technical training and apprenticeships in our curriculum. As technology continues to advance, there is a growing demand for skilled workers in fields like robotics, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing. By incorporating advanced technical training and apprenticeship programs into our curriculum, we can better prepare students for high-demand careers and provide them with practical skills that are directly applicable in the workforce. These programs can also create valuable partnerships with local businesses and industries, leading to internship opportunities and job placement for students. Our district has started an E-sports program to help foster this.

In terms of innovative programming, I would advance initiatives that promote interdisciplinary learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving. This includes project-based learning experiences that encourage students to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges. Additionally, I would support programs that foster entrepreneurship and creativity, equipping students with the skills to generate innovative solutions and adapt to a rapidly changing world. Overall, I believe in a well-rounded education that combines traditional subjects with innovative approaches to empower students for success in the 21st century.

What strategies or plans would you advance to ensure the schools are properly funded?

To ensure that schools are properly funded while maintaining fiscal responsibility, I would advocate for prudent budgeting practices that prioritize essential educational needs and minimize wasteful spending. This involves conducting regular financial audits to identify areas where cost savings can be realized, streamlining administrative processes, and eliminating unnecessary expenditures. By implementing a zero-based budgeting approach, where each expense is justified based on its value to education, we can allocate resources more efficiently

What principles drive your policies for safety in schools?

As a mom and community member the safety of our children in schools is of utmost importance to me, and my ideal policies are driven by several key principles. Firstly, I believe in a proactive approach to safety, which includes investing in robust security measures such as trained school resource officers, surveillance systems, and controlled access points. Secondly, I value the importance of mental health support for students, recognizing that early intervention and counseling services can help identify and address potential issues before they escalate.

Additionally, I advocate for the protection of parental rights when it comes to sensitive topics in schools, ensuring that parents have a say in decisions regarding their child's safety and well-being. I also believe in local control, allowing communities to tailor their safety policies to their unique needs and values, rather than imposing a one-size-fits-all approach. Lastly, fostering a culture of respect and civility within schools, where students learn to resolve conflicts peacefully and respect one another's differences, is crucial to creating a safe and nurturing learning environment. These principles would guide my policies to ensure that our schools are safe places where our children can thrive academically and socially.

How might you support the mental health needs of students/faculty/staff?

From a realistic approach, supporting the mental health needs of students, faculty, and staff involves a combination of practical and value-based strategies. Firstly, I would prioritize promoting a sense of community and belonging within the school environment. This includes encouraging the involvement of parents and families in their children's education and school activities. Strengthening family units, and a strong family support system can significantly impact a student's mental well-being.

Secondly, I would emphasize the importance of personal responsibility and resilience as stable principles. Encouraging students to develop problem-solving skills, adaptability, and a strong work ethic can enhance their mental health and preparedness for life's challenges. Additionally, incorporating character education into the curriculum to teach virtues such as perseverance, integrity, and respect can help create a positive and supportive school culture.

What existing district policies would you like to change, or what new policies would you like to implement?

Regarding district policies, I would like to revisit and potentially revise our dress code policy. While dress codes serve a purpose in maintaining a respectful and focused learning environment, they should also be fair, and sensitive to evolving social norms. I would advocate for a policy that balances the need for a professional and respectful appearance with students' rights to express themselves within reasonable boundaries. This includes ensuring that dress code enforcement is consistent, considers cultural and religious sensitivities. In essence, I would work towards a dress code policy that reflects the values and diversity of our community while maintaining an appropriate and respectful atmosphere in our schools.

Additionally, I believe it's essential to address the issue of screen time during school hours, especially in the age of digital learning. While technology can be a valuable tool for education, excessive screen time can have negative effects on students' physical and mental well-being. I would advocate for a policy that sets clear guidelines on screen time limits, encourages balanced use of technology, and promotes activities that engage students in non-digital learning experiences. This approach recognizes the importance of providing students with a well-rounded education that includes hands-on activities, physical exercise, and face-to-face interactions, while still harnessing the benefits of technology for educational purposes.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Fraternal Order of Police, Franklin County Republican Party, Jim Swearingen, Jeremiah Sawyer member of Ohio School Board Constitutional Coalition, Frank LaRose for US Senate

Describe your ideal learning environment for students.

My ideal learning environment for students is one that fosters total inclusivity, and personal growth. In this environment, every student, regardless of their background, abilities, or special needs, feels valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. To create such an environment, in an ideal world smaller class sizes would allow for more personalized attention, which is especially beneficial for students with special needs.

Inclusion is a core principle in my ideal learning environment. I believe in inclusive classrooms where students with special needs are integrated into regular classrooms whenever possible. This not only benefits students with special needs by providing them with access to a broader range of educational opportunities but also fosters empathy and acceptance among their peers. If this was possible, I would encourage the provision of necessary resources, such as additional teaching assistants, adaptive technology, and professional development for teachers to effectively meet the needs of all students.

How do you feel like your school district handled the coronavirus pandemic? What, if anything, would you do differently in the future?

As a mom who at the time had two children in South-Western City Schools, I believe that our school district made significant efforts to navigate the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic. The safety of students, faculty, and staff was a top priority, and I appreciate the swift actions taken to implement health protocols, transition to remote learning when necessary, and ensure access to technology for all students. However, looking back, there are aspects we could improve upon in the future.

Firstly, I would advocate for a more transparent and collaborative approach to decision-making during future crises. This includes actively seeking input from parents, teachers, and the broader community to ensure that the decisions made align with their concerns and needs. Additionally, I would emphasize the importance of maintaining consistent and high-quality remote learning options to ensure that students continue to receive a quality education in any scenario. Lastly, I would work to strengthen our district's emergency preparedness plans to be better equipped to handle future crises effectively. While our response to the pandemic was commendable, there is always room for improvement, and a more modern approach involves continuous learning and adaptation to better serve our students and community.

What will you do to build a relationship with parents in the district?

Building strong relationships with parents in the district is essential as a school board member. First and foremost, I will prioritize open and transparent communication channels. This includes attending PTA meetings and actively participating in discussions, where I will listen attentively to parents' concerns, suggestions, and feedback. I will also hold regular town hall meetings and open forums, creating opportunities for parents to voice their opinions and engage in candid discussions about important educational matters.

Additionally, I will actively seek out parental input on key policy decisions, curriculum choices, and school initiatives. Parental involvement will be encouraged and valued, with the establishment of parent advisory councils to provide a structured platform for their contributions. To further build trust, I will ensure that parents have easy access to information about school policies, budgets, and board actions through transparent communication channels and online resources. By fostering a culture of collaboration, open dialogue, and active engagement, I aim to build strong and enduring relationships with parents in the district, ultimately ensuring that their concerns and aspirations are at the forefront of educational decision-making.

What are your preferred strategies for faculty, staff, and administration recruitment?

As a fiscally responsible, education aware school board member, my recruitment strategies for faculty, staff, and administration focus on cost-effectiveness while upholding educational excellence. I prioritize efficient resource utilization, seeking to develop local talent through partnerships with educational institutions. Competitive compensation is essential to attract and retain high-quality professionals, and streamlined hiring processes ensure timely and cost-efficient recruitment. Merit-based hiring practices, coupled with performance evaluations, maintain rigorous standards and identify potential internal candidates for promotion. Transparent recruitment processes build community trust, and long-term planning helps anticipate staffing needs while managing budgets responsibly. These strategies balance fiscal responsibility with educational quality in managing the school district.

Other survey responses

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League of Women Voters