Tell us a little about your path to public education. What inspired you to serve on your local school board?
My path to becoming a board member was not something I initially planned. It was an unfolding of events rooted in service. I began by volunteering on our facilities committee, where I worked on developing a capital plan. That work grew into leading a full renovation and addition to our elementary school. We needed to pass a bond vote for $8.1 million and that was going to require some courage and a lot of work. Along the way, a former superintendent and trusted friend said something that stayed with me: “You can volunteer all you want, but no one on the board will take the risk of bringing this to a vote unless you join the board.”
That moment clarified things for me. I became a citizen so that I could serve more fully, because I believe deeply that public education is the foundation of our democracy. The more I learned, the more I realized that my voice mattered and that I could make a meaningful difference in the future of our students and our community. The bond passed. One of my proudest moments was when we open our renovated elementary school.
How long have you been a school board member?
16 years.
What’s something people might not realize about what school board members actually do?
One thing people might not realize about school board service is how much responsibility there is in learning to govern well, not simply making decisions, but working together, asking the right questions, understanding the impact of those decisions, and continually improving as board members. This work is not always easy, particularly in uncertain times, but I have come to deeply respect the dedication of those who step forward to serve our children. When we operate within good governance and commit to becoming better board members, we have a better chance of making decisions that positively impact student outcomes.
What’s something happening in your local school district that you’re especially excited or proud about?
I am really proud of the work we are doing using the community schools framework. Our community school strategy in Washington Central Unified Union School District is a collaborative, student-centered approach grounded in the community school framework. This whole-child and whole-community approach extends beyond the school walls to create better conditions for learning, remove barriers to student success, and address root causes that impact academic and personal outcomes. With a hyper-local focus, the strategy integrates academics, health and social services, youth and community development, and family engagement in ways that reflect the unique strengths and needs of each school community. By transforming our schools into community hubs and strengthening partnerships, we can promote healthy communities and ensure every student has the support needed to thrive.
What has been one of the most meaningful moments or accomplishments during your time on your local school board?
As I mentioned earlier, one of my proudest moments was helping pass the bond vote to renovate East Montpelier Elementary School and witnessing how deeply meaningful that project was for the staff and the broader community. Seeing a shared vision turn into a tangible investment in our children was incredibly rewarding.
Another proud moment was chairing the unified board and helping develop it during a time of significant transition. I had the opportunity to shepherd a mandated consolidation that began with deep mistrust and uncertainty and guide it toward a culture of collaboration. Watching board members move from division to working together on behalf of all our children—bringing both heart and mind to the work—was one of the most meaningful experiences of my service.
School board service is often a volunteer role that requires a big time commitment. What keeps you motivated?
What keeps me motivated is a deep commitment to serving and service to our students, to our educators, and to the district leadership team who show up every day on behalf of our schools. Supporting their work and helping create the conditions for students to thrive is both a responsibility and a privilege.
I’m also motivated by keeping the larger picture in mind. As an immigrant, I know firsthand what it means to grow up without access to a well-funded public education, and I understand what that absence can mean for opportunity and for democracy itself. That perspective grounds me and strengthens my determination to do this work every day. I believe that strong public schools are essential to an informed, engaged, and equitable society. Contributing to that mission is what continues to drive me forward.
How has NSBA supported you in your work as a school board leader?
NSBA has been instrumental in my growth as a school board member and as a leader. Through its leadership, resources, and national perspective, NSBA opened my eyes to the broader landscape of public education across the country. It helped me see beyond my own district, dream bigger, and understand how local decisions connect to a much larger national mission.
NSBA has been a constant source of motivation and inspiration, but most importantly, it has provided the practical resources I need to learn how to be an effective board member. How to govern well, lead responsibly, and keep students at the center of every decision. The conferences and events have been consistently meaningful and educational, offering both knowledge and connection.
NSBA’s support of state associations has also strengthened our work at home, ensuring that we are not working in isolation but as part of a collective effort to advance public education. I am deeply thankful for NSBA’s leadership and for the role it continues to play in developing informed, thoughtful, and courageous school board leaders.
What gives you hope about the future of public education?
My unwavering belief in democracy and in our students gives me hope for the future. When I listen to students thoughtfully define a problem, work through conflict, or truly hear one another, I’m reminded that the world will be okay. They lead with empathy, believe in kindness, and show a deep capacity to care for others.
There is so much hope in their eyes. Their ability to engage with one another respectfully and thoughtfully reassures me that the next generation is prepared not only to face challenges, but to lead with heart. That is why I will never give up on the meaning of public education for our democracy or on our students. They are our future we need to invest in them.
What advice would you give to someone considering running for their local school board?
You do not need to have any particular expertise. You need to truly believe that all kids can learn and have growth mind set. Be patient listen and work on learning how to be a good board member.
Let’s end on a personal note. What’s something you enjoy outside of your board service?
Outside of board service, I enjoy the things that keep me grounded and connected to what matters most. I love reading, especially books that explore humanity, belonging, and social responsibility. Two of my favorites are 10 Minutes and 38 Seconds in This Strange World by Elif Shafak and Go, Went, Gone by Jenny Erpenbeck. I also enjoy dancing and spending time outdoors, both of which help me recharge. And at home, I love my chickens—they bring daily joy and a sense of balance.
Above all, I love my family. Watching my children grow into adults who care deeply about others and who want to make the world a better place brings me immense joy and keeps me grounded. Spending time with them, with my husband, and with my mother-in-law, who is 102!!, is a true gift. Traveling to Guatemala also grounds me and reconnects me to my roots, offering perspective, renewal, and deep meaning.