Candidate for
Board Member; Laguna Beach Unified School District

I am running for the Laguna Beach School District Board of Education because I am an educator with 20 years of experience, a mother of 3 children in the District schools, and a life-long Laguna Beach resident who wants the best education for our children.

I am proud that my educational roots began in Laguna Beach. The beauty and culture of this community is near and dear to my heart. My husband (also a native of Laguna) and I feel fortunate to be able to raise our own children, now ages 10, 13 and 16 in Laguna Beach. Over the years, I have volunteered in and outside the classroom, been a proud member of PTA and have attended school board meetings. One of my most rewarding volunteer experiences was facilitating the GATE 4th/5th grade enrichment class at TOW, which culminated in a school wide multicultural fair. As a board member I would continue my hands on connection to the schools, teachers, parents and children in this community while raising our level of excellence in our schools to the next level.

I have a strong theoretical and foundational perspective on education and leadership experience. I have stayed current in 21st Century learning expectations while working in and outside the classroom, teaching in Japan, New York public schools, providing parent education courses and most recently, working as a first grade teacher.

I have taught a variety of learners, including gifted children and children challenged by learning disabilities and believe every child has a right to thrive in an environment where there are high expectations to promote academic, social and emotional growth. I have done extensive academic research and assessment on motivating children to learn which was included in Dr. Debra Stipek's book, "Motivating Children to Learn: From Theory to Practice", a recent guest lecturer at our school Coffee Break. I am also a Certified Positive Discipline Parent Educator and Trainer. Dr. Jane Nelson, the founder and author of Positive Discipline has also been a guest speaker at Coffee Break.

I am committed and excited to work to take our schools toward the next level in excellence. Please contact me on Tammy for School Board Facebook page, or by email at tammykec@yahoo.com. My door is always open to your questions, comments and concerns.