Candidate for
Board Member; Palo Alto Unified School District

As a PAUSD School Board member, I will always be guided by the principle that the District serves the students and is accountable to the community. With this in mind, we must strive to maximize the potential of every student so each can thrive intellectually, socially, and emotionally.

My key priorities on the School Board will be:

1. Investing in outstanding teaching that transforms students into 21st century learners.

We must attract and support teachers who instill a love of learning. Our schools can promote innovation, creativity, and intellectual curiosity so that teaching and learning are engaging, relevant, and purposeful. We must reach every student, at whatever level of proficiency, and inspire them to reach their potential. In particular, I support enhanced writing instruction at all levels, foreign language instruction starting in elementary school; expanded options for computer science, engineering, and design in middle and high school, and more innovative and interdisciplinary coursework for all students.

2. Deepening the commitment to continuous learning and development across our District.

PAUSD has a strong record of professional development. We must continue to model a learning culture for our students, and evolve and advance our District's practices, leadership, programs, and teaching for the benefit of every student in every classroom.

3. Communicating District decision-making and practices clearly and proactively.

Our educators, administrators, and families can best support our students with the mutual trust and understanding that comes from effective communication. The partnerships in our District are strongest when our community has the information to understand what is working well in our schools, the areas for improvement, and the rationale behind the District's decisions.

4. Collaborating effectively.

As a community, we can accomplish more when we work together. Our students will benefit when we partner with businesses, nonprofits, higher education (such as Stanford and Foothill-De Anza Community Colleges), the City of Palo Alto, and the families in our own community.

The most effective Board leaders have a clear understanding of the roles of the School Board and superintendent, and value informed and respectful partnership between the two. I will be guided by that understanding and will use it to ensure our District becomes the best it can be.