Candidate for
Board Member; Albany Unified School District

I believe that a free public education is the foundation on which American democracy is built. I'm a strong believer in equal opportunity--which means to me that public schools have to be as good as the best private schools. I believe that Albany has achieved that level of quality and that the excellent schools provide an important benefit to the entire community, not just to students and their parents.

School Board members represent the community. First, of course, we represent the voters who elect us and keep us in office. However, it's important that we represent in an unbiased and equitable way all of our students, out teachers, administrators, and other staff, the parents and families of our students, and all of the other residents of Albany.

Sometimes the interests of two or more of these diverse groups conflict. When they do, I believe it is my duty as a member of the School Board to pick whatever choice or course of action is in the best interest of the education and well-being of our students. I helped to craft our District mission statement, and I believe in it wholeheartedly:

"The mission of AUSD is to provide excellence in public education, empowering all to achieve their fullest potential as productive citizens. AUSD is committed to creating comprehensive learning opportunities in a safe, supportive, and collaborative environment, addressing the individual needs of each student."