Qualifications: What training, experience and characteristics qualify you for this position?

I have worked with the District as a community partner specifically in parent and community engagement, and most recently serve on the board of a federally funding health center that provides on-site health and mental health services to a high school on the Northside of the District. I have been a member of the Bond Oversight Committee for several years, and I am a former student of this district.

Opportunities: What opportunities for improvement do you identify in the District and how do you feel the Board should work towards those goals?

The District should take a closer look at its systems and processes that may contribute to the inequities that exist across the school system. Greater involvement from the District as a key player in the community to positively affect the quality of life for families in most need, rather than just waiting for them to be displaced. Increased community engagement with all segments of the SBISD community and increased community partnerships.

Funding: What actions can the Board take to secure the financial future of the District? Specifically, are there any expenditures you feel should be examined as a cost-saving measure?

The Board should continue to strongly advocate for financial relief from the State and do more to reach out to the local decision makers. Cost-saving measures should be taken at the schools only as a last resort, focus more on reducing costs in the central administration, and seek more transparent and creative solutions that do not place the burden on the students with the greatest needs.

Supporting Teachers: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing teachers in the District? What actions can the Board take to better support and retain teachers?

Retention of talent and commitment is critical, and teachers will see the District as an employer of choice if they are supported morally, professionally and financially. Teachers must be resourced adequately to respond to the every day challenges facing their students, and sometimes their families. The Board can support teachers' critical role in the success of this District by intentionally considering their input in key decisions.

Future Voters: Assess how the District prepares students to participate in their country’s democracy and describe what the Board can do to support civic engagement efforts.

School districts have the most timely opportunity to influence a young person's decision to participate fully in shaping their generation's future. They do so by offering a quality education that is factual, credible and inclusive, and that inspires curiosity and purpose. In addition by providing access to voter registration, leadership development and civic engagement, young people can realize the value of their voice in the democratic process