Candidate for
Board Member; Natomas Unified School District

Closing the Achievement Gap

As early as the second grade, there is a severe achievement gap whereby the test scores of African American students are 50% lower than nearly all other groups of students. We need to do better for our children.

I am actively working with community parents, teachers and district administration on various programs to ensure educational excellence for all students. My ideas to help close the achievement gap include district participation in "Live Homework Help," a free tutoring program in all subject areas by certified teachers offered by the Sacramento Public Library.

Career Technical Education

According to a new study, only 23% of California's high school seniors enroll in a four-year university - a number lower than any other state except Mississippi. I believe the district should increase the technical education program at our high school campuses. These programs should compliment required introductory career technical education courses at our middle schools, and be coordinated with area public and private postsecondary schools.

Building Financial Literacy

Financial illiteracy has reached record proportions and it has contributed to rising levels of bankruptcy and a lower standard of living for many California families. Students need to learn budgeting concepts, the use of credit cards, and how to prioritize their financial goals before they graduate from high school. I will promote partnerships between the District and area financial institutions in order to educate our students on managing their personal finances.