The only teacher on the Seminole County school board
Why I'm running for a second term
I have been blessed to serve on our Seminole County Public School Board for the past four years (one term). I am running again as a PROVEN LEADER with a TEACHER'S VOICE, as well as a voice for our STUDENTS, FAMILIES, EMPLOYEES, and for our FABULOUS COUNTY. Help me continue serving YOU as a Seminole County School Board Member so I can continue positive change for our children in these uncertain times -- as a teacher and school board member, I rely on my experience and compassion to navigate today's academic climate. I advocate for students, parents, and teachers in a personalized and caring way and know what should be prioritized, I listen to the parents who know what's best for their children and to our teachers who want to teach! I care deeply for our county and would love your support so I can continue making a positive difference for our students.
About me
I was born in Davie, Florida, where I lived for 18 years with my parents and 3 sisters. After graduating from high school, I earned a bachelors degree in education and a minor in political science from Florida State University. While at FSU, I met my amazing husband, Bo, to whom I have been married for almost 30 years.
Together, Bo and I have raised three wonderful children, all of whom graduated from Seminole County Schools. We are blessed that two of our children have already received their degrees from FSU and the third will follow in 2021.
I was an elementary school teacher for 26 years, 16 of which were here in Seminole County. Four years ago, I decided to leave teaching to focus on improving our Seminole County School system. As the only former teacher on the Seminole County School Board, I understand first-hand the challenges faced by students, teachers, and school system employees. I am a tireless advocate for all school system stakeholders and strictly adhere to an open door policy by providing my cell phone number to students, parents, and teachers alike.
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Abby Sanchez
Continuing to serve our county
Experienced Educator - Proven Leader - Team Player - Active Listener - Results Oriented
Accomplishments
- Physics Bus - The nation’s only hands-on physics experience provides interactive math and science activies to 4th and 5th grade students
- Technology - Prioritize technology in the classroom
- Magnet Programs for elementary school students
- Seven SCPS schools named National Magnet School of Distinction by National Magnet Schools of America
- Bussing for students attending magnet schools provides all students the opportunity to attend specialized programs
- College and Career Programs - More than 60 specialized programs of emphasis such as aviation, culinary arts, bioscience, crime lab analysis, forensic science, cybersecurity, HVAC, plumbing, and hospitality and tourism offer students career alternatives
- Living on My Own - A real life simulation allowing middle schoolers to experience their futures in a fun and exciting way.
- Programs of emphasis at all of our high schools
- Financial Accountability - prioritize spending our limited funds in the classroom, rather than on overhead
- School Resource Officers - Actual police officers ensure safety for all our students. 2 in each high school and 1 in elementary and middle.
- Partner Teaching - team teaching
- Teacher Mental Health Days - Hands-on classroom volunteer to give teachers a well-deserved break. Regularly scheduled school visits to observe real-world situations
- Food Service - Apple Dining restaurants with a wide range of fresh, healthy choices, including vegan and gluten free
- Community Support - Family outreach programs, food pantries at every school
- Mental Health Initiatives - Provide mental health support to students, employees, and families by meeting with students monthly at schools to discuss social, emotional, and mental well being. Programs include Facebook lunch and learns, Family Night Forums with free babysitting, and Parent and Student Voice Forum
- Provided meals and laptops to over 17,000 students, along with free internet access for distance learning
- A rated school district
boards, committees and public service
Community Involvement
- Seminole Cultural Arts Council - Board Member 2016-present
- Ali's Hope - Board Member (mental health awareness) 2016-present
- League of Women Voters - Women's suffrage Board/Member
- Seminole Health Advisory Board - 2016-present
- American Cancer Society - Tee up For Life - Board Member 2005-present
- American Cancer Society - Cattle Baron Ball - committee member 2015-present
- Leadership Seminole - Class of 2028 - 2018-2019
- All Chapters of the Seminole County Chamber of Commerce - 2016-present
- Lake Brantley High School PTSA -President - 2008-2015
- Lake Brantley High School PTSA - Legislative Chair and First VP - 2015-2016
- Lake Brantley Athletic Boosters - Board Member - 2008-2011
- SCPS - Community Superintendent Search Advisory Committee - 2011-2012
- Lake Brantley Pop Warner - Treasurer - 2007-2008
- Lake Brantley Pop Warner - Cheer Coordinator - 2003-2006
- Charity Volunteer - Too Many to List
- Delta Kappa Gamma/Beta Chi Chapter - Educator Sorority
School Board Related Involvement
- Take Stock in Children - Board Member - 2016-present
- SCPS Business Advisory Board - Board Member - 2017-2019
- Central Florida Public School Board Coalition - Representative - 2017-present
- Value Adjustment Board - Representative for SCPS - 2019-present
- Council of Local Governments (CALNO) - Representative
- Seminole County School Board Member - 2016-present
- Arts Alive - Board Member - 2016-present