“For over 15 years now, I have led efforts to bring local government closer to the people we serve. I intend to do the same for our school district. We need to make it easier for parents and taxpayers to know what’s happening in our local public schools, why certain decisions are being made that affect their child’s educational experience, and how they can get involved in the decision-making process before it’s too late.” 

“Our kids spend about 10 hours per day in school. We want them to be safe along with the teachers and school staff who look after them. More oversight from the district level down is needed to ensure that every school site has a current emergency response plan, knows who is in charge, what to do if there’s reason for concern, and has the resources needed to be safe if the worst-case scenario should ever happen.”

“When programs are changed or cut from the curriculum, the parents shouldn’t be the last to know. When homeowners are asked to increase the taxes they pay for public education, they need to know where the money is going and not rely on vague assurances. Public trust is something that is earned and must be cultivated. I will work to bring more accountability so the community can be confident that we are using funds to support our students and teachers in the best way possible.”

“A school is more than a building. It’s the teachers, the school nurse, the librarian, the custodian, the principal and other staff who make a school a welcoming place of learning for our kids. We need to be inventive in attracting and retaining quality staff especially in a high-cost area like ours. I will advocate for exploring creative solutions for keeping quality school employees for the long-term.”

“According to the California Department of Education, the #1 reason for unexcused school absences is lack of transportation. In fact, California ranks #50 out of 50 states for school bus access for kids. There are many incentives including large state and federal grants to bring back school bus transportation especially for electric buses. Bus transportation will help kids thrive, reduce traffic congestion in neighborhoods, improve safety around schools, impact workplace equity for parents, and save the environment. Let’s get kids in school and bring back the bus!”