Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/1527898
Mikki Cichocki CTA/NEA-Retired R U N N I N G FO R : San Bernardino City School Board facebook.com/Mikki4SBCUSD Why are you running for reelection? Over the past two years, we hired a new superintendent who has initiated a positive vision for our school district. Our board is working very well together and with the super- intendent and his cabinet as well as with our unions. I am running because I believe with this board and superinten- dent we can improve outcomes for our students and make SBCUSD shine. What are your top priorities? My top four: Support the district mission to ensure that each student has the skills, resilience and determination to create their path and thrive in school, career and life; enhance access to science, technology and fine arts; ensure account- ability and fiscal responsibility; and provide students and staff with safe and welcoming schools. Why is it important to have educators on school boards? Educators are on the front lines with our students. If we want to know what is going on in our schools; how our decisions impact schools, classrooms and student activities; and to make the best decisions possible, we have to hear from those directly impacted. What does it mean to you to be part of the movement to protect and defend our public schools? "Never underestimate a public school teacher." When I heard Gov. Walz say this, I felt it deeply. Being a teacher gives you an understanding and insight into our future generations that no other profession can give. It gives you strength and empa- thy, and compassion and tenacity. Bringing that viewpoint to a school board enriches the diversity and capacity of thought on a board. Our board has educators, parents and business professionals. We learn from each other and make our deci- sion-making power stronger. How important is the November election? The safety and education of our students is at stake. We need school boards that put students first, believe in a well-rounded education for students and don't limit access to books and resources. We need to help students thrive mentally, physically and intellectually. We need to prepare our students for the world they will live in, college and career. Talk to your friends, family and neighbors about local races like their school board. Their vote on the school board will impact your community for years. Angela Der Ramos Alisal Teachers Association, CTA Board of Directors R U N N I N G FO R : Hartnell College Board of Trustees Why are you running for election? Education is a path to equity, and this is espe- cially true of community colleges like Hartnell. [I want to help remove barriers such as] language difficulties and financial hardship, and [help assist] students who struggle academically. What are your top priorities? We have a teacher shortage. One of my goals is to widen the educator pipeline by providing opportunities for students to work and learn on local campuses. There are so many paid posi- tions that would give students a financial boost, while also giving them invaluable experience in the educational field. Moreover, many of our stu- dents across the system are immigrants. Having adult educators who share these lived experi- ences with our students absolutely is a benefit! Why is it important to have educators on school boards? As an elementary school teacher, I have wit- nessed the strength of having educators who look like their students. And as an advocate who is also well versed in policy, I am aware of how policies made in board rooms by folks in suits affect the learning conditions of students as well as the working conditions of our educators. Having educators on school boards lends a very necessary dose of reality when it comes to financial and policy decisions. In addition, edu- cators who serve on school boards can counter destructive extremist groups and candidates and ensure that democracy prevails. How important is the November election? School boards have a direct impact on the day-to-day lives of our students, members and communities. With or without educators on the ballot, it is incredibly important for members to flex their constituency muscle and get involved by getting out the vote, volunteering, donating resources and by spreading the word. We are pillars of the community and people trust and listen to us! 25 O C T O B E R / N O V E M B E R 2 0 24