Commitment to our Local Schools

By Michele H. Van Zuiden

Michele van Zuiden is a true believer in our public schools and pledges to continue to maintain Los Gatos-Saratoga Joint Union High School District as one of the best in the state.

As a parent of two LGHS students, Michele listens and understands concerns of students and parents. Michele has been actively involved in our local schools over the past 20 years through her leadership on:

• New Millennium Foundation Board (LGHS)
• Raised $2 million for our local public schools
• Los Gatos Education Foundation (LGEF) Board

1)Maintain the academic excellence of our high schools while promoting a healthy high school experience for all students; 2) Ensure financial stability of the school district through new funding sources and shared expense reductions; 3) Maintain the number of guidance counselors and current class sizes and 4) Continue expanded mental health services on campus to address student and family needs.

Business Leadership

With 28 years of experience as a health care executive in both the nonprofit and corporate sectors, Michele's business experience will be valuable in her role as a Trustee. As CEO, Michele has experience leading companies with similar size budgets and number of employees as the Los Gatos-Saratoga high school district. She has worked in unionized environments and has sat on numerous corporate boards.

Community Involvement

In addition to her commitment to our local public schools and her professional work experience, Michele has been actively involved in the community during the last 26 years as a resident of Los Gatos and Monte Sereno including:

• Hospice of the Valley Board
• United Way of Santa Clara County Campaign Council
• Girl Scouts-Camp Leader
• Court Appointed Child Advocate (CASA)

email: mvanzuiden@comcast.net