For more than 35 years, my husband Mike and I have proudly called Corona del Mar home, where we raised our three children in Newport-Mesa schools. Like so many families in our community, our lives have been shaped by the outstanding teachers, dedicated staff, and strong public schools that make Newport-Mesa Unified such a special place.

Long before I was elected to the Board of Education, I spent more than 15 years serving our schools as a PTA leader, volunteer, and advocate for students. Those experiences gave me a firsthand understanding of what helps schools thrive: exceptional teachers, engaged parents, safe campuses, strong leadership, and a relentless focus on student success.

Over the past four years, I have worked to strengthen campus safety, expand opportunities for students with special needs, support advanced learning, invest in neighborhood schools, and ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and directly benefit students.

One of the most rewarding parts of serving on the Board has been building relationships with parents, teachers, students, and community members. I believe parents are their children's first and most important teachers, and they deserve to have a voice in their children's education. I spend a great deal of time listening to families, visiting our campuses, attending school events, and staying connected to the needs and priorities of our community. I believe good decisions begin with listening.

I believe every student deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, whether that path leads to college, a career, the arts, athletics, or another passion. My goal is to ensure every child has access to outstanding teachers, challenging academics, enriching extracurricular opportunities, and a safe learning environment where they can thrive.

As your trustee, I will continue to focus on academic excellence, responsible fiscal stewardship, safe schools, parent partnership, transparency, and expanding opportunities for every student.

I care deeply about Newport Beach and Costa Mesa. This isn't a stepping stone to another office—it's an opportunity to give back to the community that has given so much to my family. I remain committed to listening, working hard, and keeping Newport-Mesa Unified among the very best school districts in California.