Candidate for
Board Member; West Contra Costa Unified School District

Our school district is at a crossroads.

Tremendous strides have been made in the past ten years to balance budgets in West Contra Costa and raise funds for new school construction and renovation. But student achievement unfortunately has not reached the levels that our community demands, and a sluggish economy and state budget cuts have threatened the district's financial stability, despite a historic parcel tax and state loan refinancing.

We can do better. And we must do better. That is why I'm running for School Board.

It's time to raise the bar on student achievement in West Contra Costa. And it's time to tighten our belts at the district-level so that we can invest in teachers and ensure that our school sites, faculty and staff have all the resources they need to educate our kids.

I will place a premium on supporting, expanding and improving upon early literacy programs that have already been put in place throughout the district. Kids who learn to read early will succeed at all levels of their education.

I also will fight for more school site resources and decision-making responsibility in return for greater accountability for student achievement. This is not a new concept but one that requires district-wide commitment and political resolve to successfully implement. And I will advocate for more diverse educational offerings at our high schools, including vocational education and pre-apprenticeship opportunities.

I believe in setting the bar high. And working both hard and smart to reach it.

But I will need your help to reach higher. Please get in touch with me if you are able to get involved in our campaign. You can reach me at (510) 758-7077 if you should have any questions, concerns or ideas about the campaign or our school district.

Our school district is at a crossroads. Let's forge a new path for our kids' sake. And let's make the journey together.