My Stances

My vision for public education is to raise its standards, be more aware of students' needs, and make sure everyone is being heard, even the ones who don’t want to be heard or think they don’t have a voice. By supporting our students throughout their whole journey, and making sure that every student no matter their background or attainment level has the chance to succeed and is given opportunities, we would not only would we be improving the school standards from K-12, but we would also be raising graduation rates and making sure our students are ensured college, university, or a specialized trade, and are truly ready for the next steps in their lives in becoming young leaders of this community and nation. 

Our teachers, paraeducators, and staff make our schools run, providing the education that is so critical to our students’ futures. Yet Mount Vernon School District ranks only 130th in Washington for teaching, and a mere 4th in Skagit County. If elected, I’ll fight for better pay, support, and respect so we can attract the best, our staff get what they deserve, and our students get the best education that they deserve.

Growing up in a working-class family in Mount Vernon, I saw how economic barriers and a lack of both opportunities and encouragement can hold students back. That’s why I’m committed to fostering an environment where all students get the support, mentorship, and resources they need to succeed, like I got from a MVHS paraeducator that allowed me to succeed, and that we close the gaps between those who have opportunities and those that do not.

When students don’t feel safe in their learning environment, learning takes a backseat. I am committed to policies that ensure environments where all students, regardless of race, gender, status, origin, or identity, can focus on learning and growth without fear of being shunned, harassed, or disappeared entirely by masked undercover officers.