As a candidate for the school board, I firmly believe in upholding the fundamental rights of parents in the education of their children. Parents play an indispensable role in shaping their children’s values, beliefs, and educational experiences, and it is essential that their rights are respected and protected.

California’s government has, at times, overreached in its authority over our education system, infringing upon the rights of parents to make informed decisions about their children’s education. As a community, we must push back against such encroachments and reaffirm the principle that parents are the primary stakeholders in their children’s schooling journey.

Parents have the inherent right to be actively involved in every aspect of their children’s education, from curriculum selection to school policies and practices. They should have a voice in decisions that impact their children’s academic, social, and emotional well-being. This includes the right to advocate for policies that reflect their values and beliefs and to hold educators and administrators accountable for the quality of education provided to their children.

As a member of the school board, I will be committed to championing parents’ rights in education and ensuring that their voices are heard and respected. I will work tirelessly to promote transparency, accountability, and parental involvement in our education system, empowering parents to take an active role in shaping the future of their children’s education.

Ensuring the safety of our students is a paramount priority that demands our unwavering attention and commitment. Events both locally and country wide have underscored the critical importance of creating secure learning environments where our children can thrive without fear.

As a candidate for the school board, I recognize the urgent need to address the issue of safety in our schools. We cannot afford to overlook the concerns of parents, students, and educators who rightfully expect our schools to be safe havens for learning and growth.

One crucial aspect of enhancing school safety is fostering strong partnerships with local law enforcement agencies. Collaboration between our schools and law enforcement is essential to implementing effective safety measures and protocols. By working together, we can develop comprehensive strategies to prevent and respond to potential threats, ensuring that our students are protected at all times.

Additionally, we must prioritize proactive measures such as implementing robust security measures, conducting regular safety drills, and providing ongoing training for staff members. Furthermore, fostering open communication channels between school administrators, teachers, students, and parents is essential for swiftly addressing safety concerns and implementing necessary interventions.

Safety is not a one-time initiative—it requires continuous vigilance and proactive efforts to adapt to evolving threats and challenges. As a community, we must remain committed to prioritizing the safety and well-being of our students above all else.

Together, let us work tirelessly to create a safe and nurturing environment where every child can learn, grow, and thrive without fear. By uniting our efforts and resources, we can ensure that our schools remain bastions of safety, security, and opportunity for all students.

The decline in enrollment within the Chico Unified School District is deeply concerning. Just five years ago, we boasted over 14,000 students, yet today, we stand at under 12,000—a staggering loss of almost 15% of our student population, largely attributed to the disruptive effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.

This trend is not unique to our district; it reflects a statewide crisis. California has witnessed a decline of 20% in student enrollment, as parents increasingly seek alternative educational options such as homeschooling for their children.

As a concerned parent, member of our community and a candidate for the school board, I firmly believe that it’s imperative for us to address the root causes of this decline. We must examine the policies and guidelines that have eroded parents’ trust in our public education system.

Transparency is key. We need an open and honest dialogue between the governing board, administration, and parents to rebuild trust and confidence in our schools. Parents deserve to be informed and involved in decisions affecting their children’s education.

Additionally, we must prioritize creating safe and nurturing environments within our schools. Safety concerns, especially in the wake of recent events, have understandably led some families to seek alternatives. It’s crucial that we implement policies and procedures that prioritize the well-being of our students, ensuring they feel secure and supported in their learning environment.

By addressing these issues head-on and working collaboratively with parents, educators, and community stakeholders, we can begin to reverse the trend of declining enrollment and rebuild a thriving public education system that meets the needs of all our students. Together, let’s ensure that every child in Chico has access to a high-quality education in a safe and supportive environment.

As a candidate for the school board, I bring a unique perspective to the conversation surrounding special education. As the proud spouse of a dedicated special education teacher, I have firsthand insight into the challenges and triumphs experienced by both educators and parents in this vital field.

Special education is not just a professional endeavor for me; it’s personal. I understand the complexities and nuances of supporting students with diverse needs, and I am deeply committed to ensuring that every child receives the quality education they deserve.

One of my core beliefs is that every student, regardless of their abilities or circumstances, deserves to have their voice heard and their needs addressed. As a member of the school board, I will be a tireless advocate for students with special needs, working to ensure that they receive the support, resources, and accommodations necessary to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

I am committed to fostering collaboration between educators, parents, and community stakeholders to develop innovative solutions that meet the unique needs of every student. By prioritizing inclusion, accessibility, and equity, we can create a school system that celebrates diversity and empowers every child to reach their full potential.

Together, let us ensure that all students, including those with special needs, are given the opportunity to succeed and excel. As your advocate on the school board, I will be a steadfast champion for special education, working tirelessly to ensure that every student’s unique circumstances are given the attention and support they deserve.

Career Technical Education (CTE) is a cornerstone of our educational system, offering invaluable opportunities for students to explore career pathways, develop practical skills, and prepare for success in the workforce. As a candidate for the school board, I wholeheartedly support and advocate for the expansion and enhancement of CTE programs within our district.

CTE programs provide students with hands-on learning experiences that are directly applicable to real-world careers. Whether students are interested in healthcare, technology, trades, or any other field, CTE offers a pathway to acquire the knowledge, skills, and certifications needed to thrive in their chosen profession.

One of the greatest strengths of CTE is its ability to meet the diverse needs and interests of students. Not every student’s path to success looks the same, and CTE programs recognize and embrace this diversity by offering a variety of pathways and opportunities for exploration.

Moreover, CTE programs play a crucial role in addressing workforce shortages and meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving economy. By equipping students with the skills and competencies sought after by employers, CTE helps bridge the gap between education and employment, ensuring that our students are prepared to enter the workforce and contribute meaningfully to our community.

As a member of the school board, I am committed to advocating for increased funding, resources, and support for CTE programs. I believe that every student should have access to high-quality CTE opportunities that enable them to discover their passions, pursue their dreams, and achieve their full potential.