My journey into union work began years ago as a site representative, but I truly immersed myself when I was invited to join the bargaining team. I had been told that the best way to understand the district where I wanted to become a principal was to bargain with them, so I took the plunge and realized quickly that this was the right space for me and my path moved from being an administrator to learning that my role In local leadership was truly the space to have an impact on the experiences of our students. 

For several years before COVID, I focused just on my role in bargaining. When the pandemic hit, it escalated bargaing and district communications to an almost daily necessity and I stepped up as lead negotiator. That experience ultimately led to my decision to run for President.

Under my leadership as President, we've made significant local changes. The first priority was to create a new mission for our association—one focused on inclusivity and transparency. This meant making tough decisions, such as asking our site reps to vote to reduce or eliminate stipends for most positions. The goal was to redirect those resources toward our members by growing stronger site rep councils, bargaining teams and creating more leadership opportunities. We also increased our PAC contributions and began focusing on school board races. Most importantly, we made a commitment to building a more organized local where members have the tools and support to drive change. 

Our efforts have paid off with remarkable victories. We've removed toxic leaders, secured Community Schools language in an MOU, won paid pregnancy disability leave, achieved raises, and improved working conditions. We’ve also made a strong impact in local school board races - with decisive wins. We forced the district to move our bargaining to school sites, allowing the bargaining team to have interaction with members while we were In our caucuses. As we have involved more members in the processes of running the union we have seen our power grow. We have stood solidarity with neighboring locals, supporting their strikes and leveraging their successes at our table.

As our work gained traction, our local’s reputation grew, and we were invited to take on a larger role. I became a statewide leader representing Region 2 on the state Community Schools Steering Committee, and I joined the California Alliance for Community Schools. Our local is now part of the 12 leading the We Can’t Wait Campaign. Additionally, I’m part of the team organizing the fight for paid pregnancy leave - AB65, an issue that impacts so many of us. I was elected to State Council, where I am in my second year, and I am also serving in my first term on Capital Service Center. 

However, leadership isn’t just about wins. There have been deep, painful challenges along the way. Being the public face has sometimes been tough, but it’s been a powerful growth experience. What I’ve learned is that, in those moments of loss, I’ve had to summon the strength and courage to rise again. And, I’ve made it a priority to help our members see that even in defeat, we have stood together and continue to gain power.

You may recall my comments on the floor at State Council about how our local knocked on more doors per member than any other in the state, yet in the end we still couldn't unseat a deeply entrenched incumbent. In those low moments, I’ve discovered what kind of leader I am, and what kind of leader I’ll be for District D. I’m the one who will reach out to you—not only to celebrate our victories, but also to help you see the lessons and the strength in our losses. The goal for me everyday will always be to make sure the voices are heard and that our power Is more today than It was yesterday.