Candidate for
Member; Alameda County Board of Education; Trustee Area 5

THIS ELECTION IS ABOUT ONE THING: THE STUDENTS. I understand that state law gives somewhat limited amounts of authority to County Boards of Education. However, I want to use my seat on the board to advocate on behalf of Union City and Hayward schools.

As a parent and grandparent, I see this as a great opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the children and families in our community.

I intend to work with the school districts to make sure that students, teachers, parents and administrators know what resources, programs and expertise are available at the Alameda County Office of Education.

With 32 years of experience at Chabot College, I fully understand what students need to be prepared for college, both 2-year and 4-year institutions of higher learning. I will work to help our students prepare for their post-secondary education.

I also understand that many students choose to go directly into the workforce. My personal project will be to build partnerships with local businesses to develop school-to-work programs and internships to give students real-life experience. At the same time, I intend to start a program that provides our court and community school students with free formal clothing that they will need for job interviews.

I will reach out to the parents, students, teachers and administrators of Hayward and Union City so that they understand the purpose and goals of the Alameda County Office of Education and Board of Education. I plan to develop a Power Point presentation that I, and my colleagues on the board, can use to present at City Council meetings, Board of Education meetings, PTA meetings, and any other community meeting.

IT IS NOT ONLY IMPORTANT TO TALK ABOUT THE ALAMEDA COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION -- I WILL TAKE ACTION. If I hear of a program in need of funding, I will see if the county can help write a grant; or if I hear of a teacher needing training, I will see if county has a program that addresses their need.

I have read and heard from constituents that the current Alameda County Board of Education is fractured and meetings are often times filled with acrimony. I will use my training and knowledge as a psychology professor to help foster a respectful working relationship with all members.

WE MUST KEEP OUR FOCUS ON THE STUDENTS, TEACHERS AND PARENTS! HAYWARD AND UNION CITY SCHOOLS DESERVE AN EFFECTIVE AND ACTIVE VOICE AT THE COUNTY LEVEL.