My story is about family, opportunity, and hope. I grew up in a family of eleven: two parents and nine siblings. My parents were immigrants who worked as farm laborers in the San Joaquin Valley, and we worked alongside them. Education was very important and a significant part of our lives. A lack of resources kept us from participating in many school activities. Eight of us have Masters and professional degrees. School and teachers were our saving grace. I had been out of high school for ten years when I returned to school and enrolled in college. Wanting to provide a better life for my children, education was the door that would give me that opportunity.

This was the hope that my parents instilled in us, the hope that we instilled in my children and the hope that I share with each and every student as your school board representative. With my longevity on the board, I have come to know our schools, the community, and our students. Our students deserve hope, and every opportunity we can give them. That’s why I continue to serve as your representative on the school board and why I ask for your vote again.