Name: Francesca Wernisch
Campaign website: francescawernisch.com
Date and place of birth: 12/18/84, West Palm Beach, FL
After five years, the school district’s state rating fell from A to B in 2023. What specific steps are needed to restore an A rating?
The reported drop in the state rating is somewhat misleading due to changes in grade level requirements and state testing. It’s important to note that no gains can be made on something new and that the superintendent promptly addressed these scores. He and the board remain focused on building on our strengths while addressing areas of growth.
There are several steps we can take to improve the academic rigor the state is expecting of us, starting with early learning. We could achieve significant gains from Pre-K to Kindergarten by partnering with community members to prioritize early learning and ensure high-quality childcare is available to everyone before Kindergarten.
Improving teacher recruitment, professional development, and support is essential. Teaching is incredibly challenging, and we need innovative ways for our HR department to support teachers both professionally and personally. I would look for successful models of holistic educator support to bring to Palm Beach County.
Developing a strong pipeline of school administrators is also critical. Principals play a key role in a school’s culture, and they need to be well-prepared, efficient, and supported. A program for peer-to-peer mentoring and professional development opportunities would be a wonderful way to strengthen this channel.
Lastly, our curriculum and materials are vital for effective classroom instruction. I want to become more familiar with the materials used at each grade level and ensure they are robust and applicable, particularly in math, phonics, and other core subjects. This analysis will complement our efforts for a holistic academic approach.
What do you think of plans to install metal detectors in Palm Beach high schools? What else should be done to ensure school safety?
Safety is our top priority because we cannot educate our children if they feel unsafe at school. The District seized the opportunity to enhance security by installing metal detectors, which have been integrated efficiently and received positively. Our Chief of Police, Sarah Mooney, is doing an incredible job, and I will continue to rely on her leadership.
There are many positive developments in PBC schools’ safety efforts. We are continuously seeking improvements, maintaining our own police force to stay agile and responsive to our needs, and utilizing technological innovations like FortifyFL and social media monitoring to stay ahead of potential issues. As technology evolves, we have the chance to grow as an organization and learn best practices from other districts nationwide.
By ensuring our facilities are adequately funded, we can enhance safety infrastructure, meet security requirements, address the mandate of having one school police officer per school, and fully invest in mental health training and resources for all personnel. Our ultimate goal is to create a safe and supportive learning environment for our students.
The Legislature in 2024 passed, and Gov. Ron DeSantis signed, a law allowing voluntary chaplains in public schools (HB 931), subject to district approval. Do you support or oppose this law and why?
The voters of Palm Beach County have provided the opportunity for the District to have trained Behavioral Health Professionals in these positions. I would love to see expansion of that program so students have access to the highest quality support available.
In June, the district revealed three plans to comply with a new state law mandating later school start times. Do you favor any of these plans, and if so, which? If not, what is your plan to comply with state law?
As the 10th largest school district in the nation, this law is going to impact our communities significantly. The three plans are the first step in understanding what those impacts will be. As a parent with children in elementary school, my first concern is the safety of children in K-5 waiting for a bus outside in the dark as a result of having to work around later start times for middle and high schools. I have heard from many teachers who fear further burnout from later working hours and from parents who are concerned about the effects on their children’s ability to participate in after school athletics or employment opportunities. There is one more legislative session to be held and my hope is this is addressed at that time and works out in favor of large district’s such as PBC. In the meantime, I encourage the public to give their input regarding the impact it will have on their families and businesses at school board meetings.
How would you assess the performance of Superintendent Michael Burke?
As a parent, and from speaking to others, I think he’s doing a great job leading the District. I love the “Burke at Work” series which highlights his seemingly constant engagement with students and schools. His extensive past experience with the budget is invaluable and he seems to have an incredible work ethic. His 4.8 out of 5 evaluation from the School Board speaks volumes and reflects their strong support for his leadership. As for his administration, it seems they are also doing a tremendous job with the task at hand.
List in reverse chronological order each college or university attended with years of attendance.
University of Florida 2005-2007
Palm Beach State College 2003-2005
List in reverse chronological order your work history for the past 15 years.
Village of North Palm Beach, Rec Asst, February 2023 to Present
Last Devenport, Inc., Project Engineer, Sept 2019 to July 2020
Abel Design, Design Associate, Feb 2013 to June 2016
Vertigo Home, Store Manager, Sept 2013 to June 2016
Jack Thomas at Home, Store Manager, February 2012 to Sept 2013
Last Devenport, Inc., Project Engineer, June 2007 to January 2012
Have you ever been a party to a lawsuit, including bankruptcy or foreclosure? If so, provide details of the case and disposition.
No
Have you ever been charged or convicted of a felony or misdemeanor, including an adjudication of guilt withheld? If so, provide charges, dates and terms of sentence.
No
Why should voters elect you instead of your opponent(s)?
I am the next generation of leadership. I have young children in the public school system and a broad focus on maintaining and improving the District’s success. Focusing solely on the budget or literacy is not enough. I believe in a holistic approach that involves prioritizing students, supporting teachers, and engaging parents to achieve the goal of providing an excellent public school education. I’ve chosen to experience the public school system for 5 years and have another decade to see firsthand how the Board’s decisions can impact a family. I want to be the voice of my community and dedicate my time and energy to this mission now and beyond one term.
What in your life experience best qualifies you to serve as a school board Member?
Born and raised in Palm Beach County, I’m a mom with children in elementary school. As a deeply involved parent, I understand the demands on principals and teachers and strive to create a safe environment where all students can reach their highest potential. I believe this can be done through a holistic approach that involves prioritizing students, engaging parents, and supporting teachers.
My degree in Construction Management, my work experience, and parenting have all fostered in me a strong work ethic, empathy, and powerful problem-solving skills. My most valuable experience for this particular role comes from being an involved mom with two children in a Palm Beach County School District school and serving as PTA treasurer.
