Collaborating on effective solutions locally is especially vital as our public institutions face political attacks at the state and national levels. Arlington’s leaders and governing bodies need to work in partnership to avoid such attacks and seek solutions that are right for our community. Arlington’s students, teachers, staff, and families seriously need our support: Our teachers are struggling to find housing in our communities. Our students need more intensive interventions than ever in literacy and math, particularly Black and Hispanic students, in some cases with proficiencies half that of their white peers.1 Far too many of our youth battle mental health crises and easy access to drugs such as fentanyl, yet we don’t have enough services to intervene, let alone address the root causes of their distress.  

Arlington cannot afford to elect a County Board Member who might take an entire term learning about the data and dynamics shaping our local educational system that I already know well. Arlington’s children need a leader who can act now. I will get to work on day one in alliance with the many groups already working to address these issues, building on my experience serving in PTAs and raising my 3 children - now thriving adults - in the APS school system. I commit to:  

• Strengthen County and School Board collaboration - The County Board cannot lead Arlington effectively without working with the School Board to lift up our schools, our youth, our families, and teachers, and staff. I vow to strengthen collaboration across our governing bodies on all issues that touch education to find the best solutions for students. 

• Effective interventions to support inclusive learning environments - We must address escalating concerns over students’ mental health and physical safety by addressing the underlying problems they may be struggling with.

• Enhance key programs for student health - Arlington’s children need safe places to study, play, and cultivate their skills together. To foster a healthier and more inclusive Arlington, I will expand our county’s park system recreational offerings, after school offerings, and job opportunities which build confidence and community.