Karen Watkins

Gwinnett Board of Education, District 1

ABOUT KAREN WATKINS:

Karen Watkins understands that our diversity is our strength and that every student deserves to feel safe, supported, and empowered in schools. As a mother, Karen understands issues that are impacting students and families trying to navigate a school year that looks very different because of COVID-19 pandemic. Karen is an advocate for fully funded public schools, well-paid teachers, and accountability in school spending. We’re excited to support her campaign for Gwinnett County Board of Education, District 1.

WHY WE’RE ENDORSING KAREN:

Karen Watkins is the daughter of immigrants and her background of blended cultures is reflective of the changing demographics of Gwinnett County. She is running for School Board because she knows that education is at the core of a thriving community. She wants to provide accountability for how tax-dollars are spent to constituents. Her mission is that students receive a quality education, safe schools, and feel cared for and supported by their community.

One of Karen’s main priorities is to improve learning conditions for students. Karen seeks to obtain smaller class sizes, create a nurturing and empowering environment, develop highly qualified teachers, and implement a multicultural curriculum. She is also aware that improving the learning conditions for students goes hand-in-hand with investing in and retaining highly-skilled and diverse teachers. Karen plans to increase compensation, provide professional support, provide continuous education/training, and decrease class sizes to support Gwinnett teachers.

Karen Watkins is the right choice for Gwinnett County school board because her experience, vision, and plans to center public education as the heart of the community align with the values of Gwinnett County students and families. Karen Watkins has the skills to transform Gwinnett County schools and the Asian American Advocacy Fund is proud to endorse her!