I am a Newport-Mesa public-school parent, community leader and dedicated advocate for children and families. My husband, Bryan and I have called Costa Mesa home for more than 20 years and are raising two children here who attend Newport-Mesa schools.

Our family is deeply connected to the community through Costa Mesa Little League, Friday Night Lights, Mesa Verde Country Club and years of hands-on volunteering. For me, serving on the Newport-Mesa Unified School District Board is personal: the district’s decisions affect my children, their classmates and families, as well as my neighbors throughout Costa Mesa every day.

I was elected in November 2022 to represent Trustee Area 2. I brought to the board years of direct involvement in Newport-Mesa schools, including leadership as president of the Kaiser Woodland Parent Faculty Organization and service on the Woodland Elementary School Site Council. I currently serve as Vice President of the Costa Mesa High School Foundation.

Since joining the board, I have worked to deliver meaningful results for students, educators and families. During my first term, I have:

Helped advance student achievement, leading the district as scores continue to increase in math and reading and secured math curriculum alignment from K-12.

Supported student safety and wellbeing with common-sense cell phone and e-bike policies that improve student safety, support student well-being, and reduce distractions in our schools.

Worked to strengthen programming and systems to support all students, from students with special needs and disabilities to increasing support for students identified as advanced or GATE.

Helped to ensure responsible stewardship of district resources through strong fiscal oversight and ensuring a balanced budget during times of declining revenue post-COVID.

My community service extends well beyond the classroom. I have served on the City of Costa Mesa Parks and Community Services Commission and the Housing and Public Service Grants Committee. I currently serve on the Board of Directors of the OC Fair and Event Center, the Board of Directors of the OC Forum and the Strategic Advisory Committee for the Community Health Initiative of Orange County.

I earned my bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona and have a master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California, with a focus on communities, organizations, planning and administration. I currently work in public affairs for Orange County United Way.

Throughout my career, I have worked on behalf of children and families through community-based education, social service, health and human services organizations. I understand how strong schools, responsive public institutions and community partnerships can work together to help every student succeed.

I will continue to bring my kids-first approach, my collaborative spirit, and my willingness to do the hard work to the Trusteeship. I will listen, ask thoughtful questions and keep the district focused on what matters most: student achievement, safe and supportive schools, responsible stewardship of public resources and meaningful engagement with parents, educators and the community.

I am running for reelection to continue building on the progress we have made during my first term and to provide steady, thoughtful and accountable leadership for Newport-Mesa students and families.