Beverly Billiris is running for the District 4 seat on the Pinellas County School Board.

1. Why are you running for this office?

I am running for the School Board because I feel our students are being over tested and we need to re-evaluate the implementation of the Common Core.  Too many of our students are being set up for failure every day. 

Teachers, students and parents need a voice on the School Board.  I will be a strong advocate for them. We need to have all our students be successful and be prepared for a career.

2. Why do you think you are the best qualified candidate for the office?

I am the best candidate for this position.  As a former mayor of the City of Tarpon Springs, I demonstrated strong leadership skills, and familiar with public budgets.  

While in public office for 12 years, I served on committees in my community as well as on a state and federal levels.  

I have been a business owner in Tarpon Springs for over 30 years, and have worked in the corporate field in accounting. 

However, most importantly, I have taught in the classroom for 14 years. (I just retired this past June).

Being in the classroom gave me a direct connection with how the decisions that are being made impact our students. My decision to run was not based on furthering a political career but a passion for change in our school system and to advocate on behalf of our future leaders.

3. If you are elected, what will be your top priorities?

My three priorities would be:

  1. Increase graduation rates and success of our students by offering more diversity of choices of education through magnet schools, fundamental schools, and expand career and technical programs.
  2. Ensure that your tax dollars are spent wisely.  More money isn’t always the answer but how the money is being spent is.
  3. Promote more parent involvement by implementing more outreach programs.