Candidate for
Board Member; Antioch Unified School District

As a lifelong resident of Antioch, and a committed and passionate community leader, I know that Antioch students deserve the very best in education and I am dedicated to leading our schools to that goal.

During the last four years, I have worked to improve education at all levels with early intervention programs, increased counseling, Linked Learning Academies and through openness to innovation and new ideas.

The economic recession was a very difficult time for public education. Many school districts were forced to lay off employees, institute furlough days, cut programs and counselors and shorten the school year. I am proud to say Antioch Unified did not have to make those tough choices. Through diligent planning and budgeting we established a significant reserve that allowed us to make it through these tough financial times without making those types of cuts that would have dramatically affected our students. Thanks to Proposition 30, the voters of California and a legislature that is determined to equitably fund public education, revenue for our schools is improving and in Antioch,graduation rates are increasing, CAHSEE pass rates are improving and disciplinary issues at our schools are decreasing.

Other significant achievements I am proud to have supported in the last 4 years and will continue to build upon: The installation of Solar panels on 20 of our 24 school sites that will save Antioch Unified School District an estimated 47 million over the next 30 years and energy savings programs that will lessen our carbon foot print and lower our energy expenses. The full implementation of programs such as Project Lead the Way and STEM that will prepare our students for success in High School and beyond. Supporting the full intention of the new Local Control Accountability Plan that will bring our parents and community members to the table in determining policy and programs that will best serve the students of our community. Transitional programs that will provide intense support for our most at risk youth. Updating our infrastructure to meet the 21st needs of students in technology and curriculum. Continuing the employment of additional security to support the safety of our schools until such time the City of Antioch resources are at full restoration. The passage of Measure B to rebuild our 60 year old High School, Antioch High.

Over the years, as I have served on PTA's and various community service organizations, I have learned that we all need support to be successful. My goal is to improve the school district's ability to address the needs of struggling students, and to strive for equity and excellence for all of our students. Children that are confident in their abilities and have a solid family, community and school support system will develop a vision for their own life path, building not only a better life for themselves but a stronger community and a stronger nation.

I am excited and ready for another four years! Striving to build on the strength of our diversity, the power of our collaboration and commitment to continue to serve each and every one of our families and students. I would appreciate your support and your vote on November 4th.