VOTE411 Voter Guide

I retired from the Beaverton School District in 2024 after 30 years of service. I primarily taught high school social studies, but I had other experiences in six buildings and at all three academic levels. I have also been involved with leading and delivering professional development related to diversity, equity and inclusion. I bring a specific perspective that has mostly gone unheard since I started teaching in the district. I am also a current union member in the Centennial School District, which provides a second perspective sorely needed on this board.

The district has a moral and legal obligation to comply with federal and state policies. I will be a strong voice to ensure that every student has access to a free and equitable education.

I believe that one of the most overlooked areas in 6-12 education is the single-classroom environments serving our student populations that have disregulation hurdles to overcome. These situations are challenging to manage and truly need more social workers and paraeducators in order to make these classes safer for the learning that is taking place.

I am a proud brown-skinned Latina-Salvadorian immigrant, a working mom, life-long educator, caregiver to my elderly parents , a partner and a community advocate. I understand first hand the challenges many families face today. My life has been dedicated to supporting Beaverton students and educators, where I served as a teacher for 16+ years. Professionally, I serve as the Executive Director of the Educator Advancement Council where I have the privilege to support Oregon's' 80,000 educators! Strong Schools make for strong communities.

Public education is under attack through executive orders and policies that undermine student rights, educator autonomy, and school funding. I am committed to standing against these threats and ensuring our schools remain safe, inclusive, and well-resourced! As a board we have passed a immigrant and refugee student resolution outlining our stance to keep students safe and have accompanied that with training for staff. We have also shared our policies and rights of our LGBTQ+ students and staff. We will continue to watch what happens federally as we currently receive $32.8 million dollars from the federal government in addition to some funds for technology that may be cut and/or tied to federal mandates.

If re-elected, my top three priorities over the next four years will be: 1. Literacy for All – Every child has the right to read. We have implemented evidence-based reading instruction, but the work isn’t done. I will continue to push for policies and resources that ensure every student—regardless of background—has access to strong literacy support so they can thrive in school and beyond. 2. Safe & Inclusive Schools – Hate has no place in Beaverton schools. Every student and educator should feel seen, valued, and celebrated for their identities, languages, and cultures. I will continue advocating for policies and programs that create welcoming environments where all students feel safe to learn and grow.