Dr. Martin Karp, an esteemed educator and dedicated public servant, is running for the Miami-Dade School Board. With a robust background in education and administration, Dr. Karp aims to leverage his extensive experience to foster a thriving, inclusive, and effective educational environment for all students in Miami-Dade County.

An Established Leader in Education

Dr. Karp currently serves as the Dean of Academic Affairs and Community Engagement for the Talmudic University consortium, overseeing various educational institutions and programs. His journey in education began with multiple degrees from the University of Miami and Syracuse University. Over the years, he has held significant roles, including Business Manager for Southern Playbill Publishing and Circulation Director for Miami Beach Magazine. His commitment to education is evident in his 16-year tenure as an elected official on the Miami-Dade County School Board, where he served as Vice-Chair multiple times.

A Proven Track Record of Advocacy and Innovation

During his previous terms on the School Board, Dr. Karp introduced and implemented numerous initiatives aimed at improving educational outcomes. He has been a staunch advocate for students with disabilities, dropout prevention programs, and enhancing science education. His efforts have been recognized with numerous awards, highlighting his contributions to education and community service.

One notable achievement under Dr. Karp’s leadership was the dramatic increase in participation in the South Florida Regional Science Fair. Initially held in an empty mall with minimal attendance, the event’s relocation to Miami Dade College and a 403% increase in participation underscored his commitment to hands-on learning and student engagement.

Motivated by a Vision for the Future

Dr. Karp’s decision to run for the Miami-Dade School Board again is driven by his passion for education and his belief in the significant opportunities presented by a relatively new superintendent and a changing board. His experience in unifying people, irrespective of political affiliations, and his deep-rooted commitment to educational excellence, position him as a candidate capable of making immediate and impactful contributions.

Dr. Karp’s strategic vision includes enhancing students’ school experiences and educational outcomes. He plans to focus on areas such as expanding after-school programs, ensuring every student graduates with practical skills, supporting physical education, promoting field trips, and advocating for augmented intelligence. His goal is to make Miami-Dade County Public Schools a technology hub by enhancing teacher training and pursuing grants.

A Commitment to Non-Partisan Decision Making

Throughout his career, Dr. Karp has maintained a steadfast commitment to keeping politics out of education. His approach has always been to evaluate each item based on its educational merit, ensuring that students are not subjected to political views while in school. His items, well-researched and free from personal politics, reflect his dedication to the best educational practices.

One example of his non-partisan approach was the implementation of fruit vending machines in schools, following feedback from parents about the lack of healthy alternatives. This initiative, driven by research and stakeholder input, highlights Dr. Karp’s ability to listen and respond effectively to community needs.

Building Strong Community Relationships

Dr. Karp’s ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and community members, has been a cornerstone of his success. His commitment to staying connected with people by being present in schools and actively listening to their concerns earned him a Lifetime Legacy Award from the county PTA/PTSA.

His responsive approach, including a policy of getting back to everyone within 24 hours, ensured that stakeholders felt heard and valued. This cooperative and responsive method is essential for effectively representing the community and advancing educational goals.

Addressing Challenges and Fostering Resilience

Dr. Karp acknowledges the challenges facing Miami-Dade schools, such as declining enrollment in certain schools and the need for affordable workforce housing for teachers. He plans to address these issues by repurposing facilities and offering excellent programs that attract parents and students. His focus on providing hands-on experiences, such as the science fair, underscores his commitment to practical learning opportunities.

A case was raised regarding Dr. Martin Karp’s involvement in afterschool programming, suggesting that school board members should not be engaged in such activities. Dr. Karp, however, had always considered it his duty to listen to parents and provide a variety of afterschool programs across all schools. While critics singled out one specific program, Dr. Karp remained steadfast in his advocacy for extracurricular activities. His dedication was evident as he defended his office against these allegations. Ultimately, the United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit vindicated Dr. Karp, affirming that the responsibility for managing facilities and afterschool programs indeed lay with the school board. 

Through this adversity, Dr. Karp demonstrated remarkable resilience—a trait he believes is essential for both students and adults to develop. His commitment to teaching resilience is rooted in his belief that everyone possesses greater strength and potential than they realize. By fostering this inner strength, Dr. Karp aims to empower individuals to overcome obstacles and thrive in the face of challenges.

A Vision for the Future

Dr. Karp’s vision for Miami-Dade schools includes a coordinated effort with staff and community stakeholders to identify areas needing improvement and build on successful initiatives. His strategic planning aims to provide a top-tier education and a safe, unbiased learning environment, emphasizing both basic skills and elective courses that prepare students for life beyond graduation.

In conclusion, Dr. Martin Karp’s extensive experience, proven track record, and unwavering commitment to education make him an ideal candidate for the Miami-Dade School Board. His focus on strategic planning, community engagement, and non-partisan decision-making promises a brighter future for all students in Miami-Dade County. Voters can learn more about his vision and initiatives by visiting martinkarp.com.

Published by: Nelly Chavez