What Distinguishes My Candidacy?

By Maria Diaz-Slocum

I would like the voters of the Redwood City School District to know what distinguishes my candidacy from that of the other candidates for this office. Here are some brief thoughts.

I am seeking re-election and I respectfully ask for your vote.

My heritage and experiences as an immigrant child who went through the local school system has given me a unique perspective on what it takes to ensure that all children receive a quality education.

My personal integrity, ability to listen to others and my sense of equality and accountability are traits that have served me well on the Redwood City School Board. Living and working in Redwood City for over thirty years has given me a unique opportunity to see schools from three different perspectives: from the position of a student, a community member and a parent. In addition, my brothers and sisters are graduates of the local school system and my two children are currently enrolled in a Redwood City middle school.

I possess a strong sense of giving something back to the community. I have served my community for many years giving freely of my time and energies. I was recognized in the Fair Oaks area for my contributions. My volunteer work includes serving the high school district, the elementary district, the Frontiers in Leadership program, teaching the Internet to first time users, and organizing many other community outreach efforts.

On a weekly basis I read to youngsters and talk with many students, teachers and parents in the Redwood City school system. My work and position as an elected trustee have taken me to all our schools and I have had a unique opportunity to work with the city's leadership, the workingmen and women of our city and teachers, administrators and a wide spectrum of real people. I believe this is an asset for leadership as my experiences come from a cross section of our community rather than from one particular area.

My diverse background and life's journey have given me a unique vision for our district. I am prepared to continue to work on the difficult issues facing our district in an objective and collaborative fashion. I have a track record of working positively to craft solutions that work. I will continue to view the issues from a broad perspective and the voters have my pledge that I will always make students the district's first priority.

Like my parents, I have high expectations for all children.

Through a new style of leadership, coupled with my diverse experiences and a track record of achievement on the school board, I am prepared to serve our community for another four years.

I respectfully ask for your vote.

Thank you - if you would like to share a thought with me, kindly send an email to mdslocum@comcast.net.