Candidate for
Member of the Board of Trustees; Los Angeles Community College District; Office 6

While on the Board of Trustees Maria was involved at the inception of both Proposition A and Proposition AA, speaking to various community organizations in support of the measure. She worked with Green Peace and students from across the district to ensure that the LEEDs building standards were adopted. Maria and her colleagues were successful in ensuring that 40 to 50 of the new buildings would use 15-25% clean energy and that 10% of the new buildings energy would be generated by solar power. This means that nearly 50 buildings will meet the LEED Certified of Silver standards. Aside from this billion dollar building project, the district faces a rough road ahead with the recent statewide increases in tuition and the decrease in funding. Maria also organized student lobbying in support of AB 540 and against the state budget cuts and increases in tuition.

Upon her return to the Board of Trustees Maria will ensure that that these projects are all completed in a timely manner, on budget, and with the environment in mind. The completion of the bond-building projects throughout the district must be a priority. She will also work to guarantee the establishment of a District-wide student senate. Maria is firmly dedicated to improving every aspect of the district, from curriculum to student participation to community involvement.

Other Issue of Importance to our Communities:

Increasing the Visibility of the Board - Most college students and community members do not know that the board exists. Board members need to be out on the campuses and in the communities. As a board member, I will go to each campus at least once a month to talk with students, staff, faculty, and any community members on an informal basis. In order to keep the board accountable, the voters must know about its existence and function.

Distance Learning Enhancement - LACCD was one of the first institutions to offer learning outside the classroom through the very popular Instructional Television (ITV). Over the last few years each college has also offered on-line classes. This method of learning is a boon to busy people, single moms, and many others who would not otherwise be able to complete their education and become employable. The district has improved on the procedures for ITV over the years and now we must continue to nurture distance learning's growth, and work toward expansion.

Increasing Community Partnerships - Colleges from throughout the district have joined with many businesses, community groups, and community members to better their campuses. These partnerships are crucial to our colleges throughout these difficult budget times. I believe that with more board support and hands-on activity we can double--or even triple--these valuable partnerships. With the help of our community we can continue to improve and grow with the times.