Curtis Campogni

As Pinellas County Schools pilot a new weapon detection system, the conversation has largely centered around cost. But when it comes to student safety, the first question shouldn’t be about dollars, it should be about reducing risk. As a parent and professional, I believe we need to evaluate what actually improves safety, how it’s implemented, and whether it’s something we can stand behind.

One story becomes a pattern. A pattern becomes fear. And fear drives decisions. But after looking at Pinellas County Schools over the past several years, I couldn’t find the pattern people keep talking about. So why are we acting like it’s there?

When people ask candidates for their “platform,” they usually want a quick slogan or a few talking points. I understand that. But leadership is more than a slogan. In this blog, I outline three principles that guide my work and my campaign for Pinellas County School Board: supporting teachers, leading with logical consistency and empathy, and making decisions that strengthen our schools for the long term.