Engagement

…You have to want to be engaged. There has to be deep-seated desire in your heart and mind to participate, to be involved, and to make a difference. If the desire isn’t there, no person or book can plant it within you. —Tim Clark

The GCPS School Board policy BBA defines the School Board Powers and Duties. (See my Policy page.) This policy does not define how a member does this work.

You, the citizens of my district elected me to serve as your school board member, twice. I dedicate my time and energy to serving. I choose to fill my weeks with in-person involvement in classroom activities and extra-curricular activities that put me in the same room with the children and adults of Goochland County. I am proud that citizens can say, “Mrs. Horn is everywhere.” 

Engagement in the complex work of education and the many activities that learners of all ages benefit from is my most important source of information as I collaborate to find solutions. I make myself available and approachable. There will always be controversial topics and decisions. Our relationships, common sense, local voice and choice, and respect for each other will help us create an engaging and responsive community where everyone feels informed, included, valued, and empowered.

My platform of in-person communication provides for two-way dialogue and honest emotions. You will not find me present on social media like other candidates for elected office. I use my valuable time working to be a primary source with you and for you as we learn in actual events.  I will not turn off your comments or plant words of a political agenda or other organization that may be anti-public education.  I will not take bits and pieces of a person’s conversation out of context to create drama or divisiveness.

I respect genuine concerns for Goochland students that are grounded in fact. I respect genuine emotions when a citizen shares their knowledge to collaborate for positive change. I respect that a parent loves their child so much that even in the most hectic and painful times they will reach out to me to seek help or to debate a policy or action. I respect that employees of GCPS may have frustrations as well as have ideas for improvement. I respect that there is always room to make each school’s community and the division better.

I welcome all conversations in-person, through email, or over the phone.  You can reach me at karen.horn29@gmail.com.  Please include a phone number and the best time for me to call you or meet with you in person. This option provides busy families in 2024 who want and need to be engaged the opportunity to share honestly and confidentially specific concerns.  I respect your time and your multiple responsibilities. 

I am joyfully engaged in making a difference in my community following my high expectations for service and the Goochland Core Values of Excellence, Creativity, Courage, Honor, and Optimism.  I look forward to being a part of your experiences in Goochland County.

The only way to do great work is to love what you do. –Steve Jobs

Please use the school division’s website as a valuable resource specific to our community,  https://www.goochlandschools.org/.  If I search the website and cannot find what I seek, I ask a school division employee as well as provide suggestions for improving access to what is important for our division’s stakeholders.  You too can take these actions to support everyone’s need for accurate and current information.