Letter to Constituents of District 8,

I appreciate your confidence in me in 2018 and I look forward to your support again.  Even though it is such a divisive time in our country, I am truly honored and grateful to serve on our State Board of Education right now. I have great optimism that every individual, whether in policy making or not, that we can all help bring back unity and kindness in our public discussions – and we can do this by listening to and understanding the fears that are driving so much dissension. Whether it is a discussion about masks, vaccines, CRT, funding for public schools, or health education standards, everyone in America has been discussing these topics and found themselves on one side or another. And now, most education systems are in the middle of these divisive issues and our kids will end up paying the price. I have come to realize It is no longer up to one side or the other to do better, I believe it is up to all of us. And I personally plan to be the type of policy maker that can lead by that example.

 I have always believed it was important to use my leadership roles to be a voice for those parents and children that are not able to show up themselves and be heard. I advocate for policy decisions that “lift all boats” and that ensure every youth in Nebraska will have the opportunity to reach their full potential. Our community's education needs have changed considerably from when I was in school, so I’ve needed guidance to make policy decisions. My compass has been focused on understanding data, facts, science, and research, while also considering the dignity of every youth. At times my work has led me down paths where science and religion have collided—and in those situations I have reached out to many experts including some faith leaders and spiritual advisors for conversation. Today’s education challenges are not simple matters and I have taken them very seriously. Ultimately my north star has always been to ensure that all Nebraska youth were prepared to be successful in the complex societies that they will encounter upon graduation.

 Parent voice has also been an important part of my work-- and even though my work on the board is unpaid-- it has been like a full-time job for me to take time to listen to everyone that wants to meet with me. Not only have I hosted many Town Halls to listen to constituents and parents, but I have also found myself attending bible studies and many other civic and religious discussions where parents could share their concerns. I have grown from each experience.

 THANK YOU for your support.  Feel free to reach out to my cell or email address listed below. 

 If you believe my work is important and you wish to make a donation to my campaign account, you may send a donation to Neary 4 State Education at the address below. Or you can make a donation online at this link. And thank you again for this opportunity.

Warmest regards,

Deborah Neary

Nebraska State Board of Education, District 8

Neary4StateEducation@gmail.com 

402-215-9139