Karen’s Priorities:
Education:
Strong Schools for Every Arizona Family Four Generations of Public Education.
My family has been in Arizona for four generations, and every one of us attended public schools. My grandmother went to the Adams School (later named after her principal Grace Court) in downtown Phoenix. Both my parents were first-generation college students because Arizona’s public education system gave them that opportunity. Public schools made my family’s story possible. They should make opportunities possible for every family.
As an elected member of the Madison Elementary School District Governing Board, I see firsthand how careful planning can protect students, but I also see how fragile the system is statewide. It doesn’t have to be this way.
Across Arizona, schools are doing extraordinary work with limited resources. But too many districts are cutting programs and staff, closing campuses, dealing with unsafe, aging facilities, and struggling to recruit and retain teachers.
If elected, here is my plan: fully fund K–12 public education, invest in preschool and early literacy, raise teacher pay to competitive levels, protect school funding from legislative sweeps, and ensure safe, modern school facilities.
Affordability:
Lower Costs, Responsible Budgeting, and a More Affordable Arizona for Our Families
Arizona Is Getting Too Expensive. Families across Arizona are feeling financial pressure. Housing is unaffordable, healthcare and utility bills keep climbing, groceries cost more. The average age of a first time home buyer is now 40. I have three sons and I want them to build their futures in Arizona, not feel pushed out by rising costs.
Last year, the Legislature chose to take funds away from schools, roads, emergency services, and water infrastructure to fix the budget crisis of their own making. As an accountant, I know how to balance a budget, and I’d do it without cutting essential services.
If elected, here is my plan:fight unnecessary utility rate hikes, demand responsible, transparent state budgeting, protect funding for infrastructure and public safety, support policies that keep housing costs low, and grow the economy through education and workforce development.
Water Security & Smart Growth:
Protecting Arizona’s Future Arizona’s Future Depends on Leaders Who Will Take Action
Nothing matters more to Arizona’s long-term economy, property values, and quality of life than water security. In communities like those in LD4, homeowners, businesses, and developers all understand one thing: without a sustainable water plan, our growth and prosperity are at risk.
I serve as Board President of the Arizona Trail Association, and volunteer as a City of Phoenix hike patrol. I have always been committed to conservation efforts and protecting our environment and natural resources.
If elected, here is my plan: Protect investments in water infrastructure, support long-term, science-based water management, promote conservation and innovation, and strengthen oversight and transparency in water policy.
