1. Expanding Educational Opportunities for All Students
• Innovative Pathways: Continue the expansion of specialized programs like the Youth Cinema Project and district-wide Speech and Debate, ensuring students have access to unique opportunities that prepare them for college and careers.
• Vocational & Technical Education: Strengthen partnerships with local colleges and industry to offer more technical training programs, providing students with practical skills for in-demand jobs.
• Equitable Access: Advocate for resources that close the achievement gap, ensuring that all students, regardless of background, receive the support they need to succeed academically.
2. Supporting Teachers and Staff
• Fair Compensation: Work closely with unions to ensure fair compensation and working conditions, recognizing the dedication of teachers and staff as essential to student success.
• Professional Development: Invest in continuous professional development opportunities to help educators stay at the forefront of best practices and educational innovation.
• Workforce Diversity: Promote diversity among faculty and staff to reflect the diverse student body and bring varied perspectives into the classroom.
3. Enhancing Student Wellness and Safety
• Mental Health Support: Prioritize mental health services in schools, including on-campus counseling and wellness programs, to support students’ social-emotional well-being.
• School Safety: Ensure safe, inclusive learning environments by improving safety protocols, maintaining secure campuses, and addressing issues such as bullying and discrimination.
• Nutrition and Physical Health: Expand access to healthy meal options and physical education programs, promoting student wellness and healthier lifestyles.
4. Community Engagement and Transparency
• Open Communication: Foster transparent decision-making by maintaining open lines of communication with parents, teachers, and community members through forums, newsletters, and regular updates.
• Parent and Community Involvement: Encourage active participation in district committees, ensuring that the voices of parents and community members are integral to district planning and initiatives.
• Partnerships with Local Government: Leverage partnerships with local, state, and federal officials to secure additional funding and resources for district schools and programs.
5. Fiscal Responsibility and Sustainable Growth
• Budget Accountability: Ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly and transparently, prioritizing initiatives that have the greatest impact on students and schools.
• Facilities Upgrades: Continue to advocate for the modernization of school facilities, ensuring that classrooms, labs, and athletic spaces are up-to-date and conducive to learning.
• Sustainability: Support environmentally conscious initiatives, such as energy-efficient buildings and green technology in schools, contributing to long-term cost savings and a healthier environment for students.
6. Preparing Students for a Global Future
• STEM & Arts Education: Champion programs that integrate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) with the arts, giving students a well-rounded education that prepares them for the future.
• Cultural Competency: Promote curricula that reflect the cultural diversity of the student population, fostering inclusivity and preparing students to thrive in a globalized world.
• College Readiness & Career Exploration: Expand dual-enrollment opportunities and internships, allowing students to gain college credits and work experience before graduating high school.
7. Empowering Families and Building Stronger Communities
• Support for Families: Continue offering programs that support working families, such as affordable childcare and after-school activities, to help students and parents balance education and family life.
• Community-Centered Schools: Promote schools as community hubs where families can access services, participate in events, and engage with local organizations that enrich the educational experience.
• Equity and Inclusion: Champion policies that break down barriers for marginalized communities, ensuring that every family has the resources and support to thrive in the district.
CHRISTINE SALAZAR | Education Advocate & Community Leader 