Candidate for
Governing Board Member; Paso Robles Joint Unified School District

I have resided in Paso Robles since 1974. In 1976, I became a volunteer in my daughter's Kindergarten class (Marie Bauer School) and continued to volunteer in the Paso Robles Schools over the years. I was involved in PTA, serving as an officer for a number of years at various school sites. I was a member of the School Site Council at Flamson Middle School. For a short time, I was employed by Paso Robles Public Schools as a Part Time Clerk at Winifred Pifer Elementary School.

I have always held a great deal of pride in the Paso Robles Public Schools. I have considered our district to be an exemplary district with exceptional educational opportunities for students. I was able to watch prior School Board members dedicate themselves to the job of providing the best for students. I decided to run for the School Board in 1979, however lost my election by 75 votes. As I was serious about this position, I continued to attend all School Board meetings for two years until I once again ran for the Board in 1981 - and won! As I have taken my position as School Board member seriously, it is important for you to know that in 19 years of service to you, I have attended all but a few meetings. Over the years, I have served with 4 Superintendents (hiring 3), proudly been involved in the building/remodeling of many schools and support service buildings, seen various methods of curriculum come and go, welcomed into our district many dedicated teachers and support staff, shook the hands of over 5000 graduating seniors and almost as many young people entering the high school and listened to the concerns of parents, staff and community members. I am anxious to continue to serve in this capacity.

In February, 1999, I was honored for my work in education. I received the Cuesta College "Woman of Distinction Award in Education." Words cannot begin to tell how I felt receiving this award. My first thought was that there are so many other people who deserve this award. However, as I stood and received the award, I did so remembering the wonderful gift I had of serving the parents, staff, students and community of Paso Robles as their School Board Member. I had earned that award for my dedication and hard work and determination and, now, I wish to continue to do the same.

The community of Paso Robles has also been important to me. I have volunteered in various capacities over the years. One such reward to me was serving on the Paso Robles Library Board for 14 years. During that time, I diligently worked toward the building of a new library in our community. I served with many dedicated people over the years and we worked together with the City Council to realize that dream. Gracing the south side of our downtown park is our beautiful Paso Robles Library. I remember the hard work and many meetings that went into that task. I remember a special librarian, Ann Martin, who guided us through every step. Our community is very proud of that accomplishment!

To me, Paso Robles, stands for "tradition, history, working together, young people" and our ability to strive for a better tomorrow - always! I want to continue to do just that for the Paso Robles Public Schools.