Candidate for
Board Member; San Lorenzo Unified School District

The most effective school boards are those that listen and value all opinions and ideas brought before them. They recognize that concerns, particularly those of parents, reflect the feeling of the community they serve. Effective boards advocate for our children and do what is best for them.

As a bilingual parent of four children brought up in district schools from kindergarten to 12th grade, I understand the need for parental and community involvement. Two of my sons are now attending college and I am well aware of what it takes to educate and prepare our students for life after high school. As a ten-year employee of the district, I will bring a unique perspective as I understand what it is to give your all and try to run an efficient, effective operation on very few resources and staff support and becoming very creative with what you have been given to work with. My current position with California State University, East Bay has allowed me to volunteer and become involved with many outreach programs geared toward preparing young men and women for college. This unique dynamic permits me to remain informed and up to date on many workshops, seminars, forums and events available to local schools and pass on information to our district, a perfect partnership.

As a board member with two children still attending district schools, I will remain in touch on a personal level with what is happening in the classroom, on the campus and the community. I bring a fresh perspective and approach in addressing the challenges we are facing in our district. I will work to establish and encourage:

1. Transparency: Candid open communication with the community, parents, teachers and staff. In order to understand each other, we must all be open and willing to communicate in a respectful manner. It is ok to disagree, but we all must have an equal opportunity to communicate our needs and concerns.

2. Collaboration: Reach out to all (community, parents, teachers and staff) to brainstorm and work together during this time of crisis for the success of our children. We must consult the "front lines" on what works and what is not working. Teachers and staff work directly with our students and many have for years. Our community has changed in the past several years and we must be willing to change as well. Collaboration allows for greater information exchange, intellectual resources and a united community.

3. Enhance school resources: Teachers, librarians, classified staff, custodians, supplies, books and technology are essential tools needed in the learning environment of our students. We must not only retain "jobs" but maintain the quality staff that we are so proud of in the San Lorenzo Unified School District.

In my efforts on the board I will always uphold my fundamental convictions which are honesty, integrity, hard work and always putting children first.