Candidate for
Board Member; Gilroy Unified School District

I want to serve on the Gilroy Unified School District Board of Education to ensure that students obtain the academics and skills necessary to achieve their dreams and goals, just as I did fourteen years ago. I believe that every child has the opportunity to succeed in life and fulfill their dreams when they receive the best education. As a parent of a future student who will attend our local schools, I look forward to continuing working with other school board members to make sure the district provides a high quality learning environment that creates well-rounded individuals who can make positive contributions to society. Furthermore, I would like to use my talents, my leadership attributes, and passion to carry out the District's mission by seeking more partnerships to increase the school's academic achievement.

As a community, we must provide the resources to students once school is out. Studies have showed that after-school programs increase academic achievement and provide a safe outlet for students. Developing homework centers at every school will provide a place for students to work on their homework with the assistance of tutors and the assurance of having a safe place at their school sites. I would encourage the school board to create a partnership with the City of Gilroy and local businesses to provide the adequate support to establish homework centers.

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of California, Berkeley shows that money invested in increasing the number of students entering and completing college results in increased workforce earnings, which in turn increases the state's tax revenue, reduces poverty, reduces need for social services, and reduces incarceration. The school board must play a larger role in promoting higher education by creating a culture at our schools that prepares our children for a life after high school with the opportunity to continue their studies in higher education.

As years pass and Gilroy continues to grow, we will be faced with new opportunities as well as challenges, and as with any community, our true resolve will be manifested by our collective and thoughtful response during difficult and good times.