As a parent of two children in public schools, a former school mental health counselor, and an advocate for equitable education with11 years of experiences within the human and social services field, I understand the expectations for high quality education from a number of perspectives.

My goal as a Kent School District Director is to facilitate an environment where schools not only “successfully prepare all students for their future,” as the Kent motto states, but to prepare all students for a successful future. I will work toward equity within the school system, no matter the student’s background. I will also advocate for continued fiscal responsibility and for an environment where families, schools, and our community can work together for the success of every student.

Kent schools have experienced a remarkable increase in diversity. There are more students from different ethnic, racial, linguistic, religious, cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds than ever before. Indeed, in the past six years, students of color increased from 23% to 35%. Moreover, there are 87 languages spoken by students in the district--the highest in the state. As a district with enormous diversity, Kent School District Directors need to effectively represent and be responsive to the complex needs of diverse children and families who count on schools to provide a high quality education.

For the past two decades, I have devoted my time to the equitable education of our children. I have been a voice representing our multicultural community for equitable education through advocacy before state legislators in Olympia and as a member of the Minority Executive Director’s Coalition, the Multi Ethnic Think Tank, and the Communities of Color Stakeholders. I have volunteered as an officer of a Parent Teacher Organizations (PTO), organized an academic enrichment program for high school students, coached community-league soccer, and served on the board of Family Support Washington--a statewide membership organization for programs, centers and individuals who ascribe to the principles of Family Support.

I look forward to the privilege and challenge of serving the children and families of Kent schools.