Candidate for
Board Member; Santa Barbara High School District

Dear Voter,

I want to be your voice on the Santa Barbara School Board and respectfully ask for your vote on November 4.

My children attended our local schools, and my family is committed to this community. I helped raise more than $2 million to build the Elings Aquatic Center at Dos Pueblos High School. Working with other dedicated families, we created a "public-private" partnership that is an example of the vision and initiative I will bring to the School Board.

I will make student mastery of the academic core subjects my highest priority. I am also committed to extending vocational education opportunities that lead to career pathways so that students will leave our schools ready to enter the workforce as well as succeed in college.

As a parent, I have seen the enormous benefits of extracurricular activities, ranging from athletics to music and the performing arts, mock trial and debate. Enhanced self-esteem, creativity and a sense of purpose and pride are among the benefits for students. These programs allow the broader student population to experience success, and participation promotes interpersonal skills, discipline, and health. Our students grow up to become citizens of the world; by gaining exposure to a variety of activities, they are better prepared to succeed.

Common sense will guide my decision-making, and I pledge to be a thoughtful, fair and respectful leader. I'm ready to face the challenges of protecting and extending educational excellence in tough economic times.