Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/1527898
Randa Wahbe United Faculty of North Orange County Community College District CCA Vice President R U N N I N G FO R : Citrus College Board of Trustees Randa4Citrus.com Why are you running for election? I believe in strengthening our community colleges, which are a critical pathway for so many to achieve their dreams. As a community college educator for over 25 years and a leader in educational planning at the local, state and national levels, I have the experience, knowledge and relationships to continue building upon the great partnerships between our community and the college. What are your top priorities? Equity and access. We need to expand the dual enrollment program to meet student demand and increase their access to a college education. Our community would benefit from a Puente Program, apprenticeships with the trades, and a partnership with the Boys and Girls Club to provide childcare for students and staff. Why is it so important to have educators on school boards? As a longtime educator, I understand public edu- cation. As a union leader, I've been in rooms where decisions on education are made and was able to share my experience and knowledge to help inform the outcome. We need educators in these rooms because we are the experts who know what our stu- dents and educators need and deserve. What does it mean to you to be part of the movement to protect and defend our public schools? This entire experience has been so invigorating and exciting. The amount of support I've received from other educators, board members, elected officials and organizations gives me great pride in being part of running for public office as a union educator. How important is the November election? We need to send a resounding message that public education cannot be bullied into submission, and democracy will prevail. Vote! Joshua Christ Mt. San Antonio College Faculty Association R U N N I N G FO R : Fontana Unified School Board christ4fontana.com Why are you running for election? Our students are the future, and our schools are where that future transforms from a fuzzy far-off dream into a clear, achievable reality. Every student deserves a robust education that prepares them for the real world in a safe, equitable and inclusive environment that highlights and encourages individual strengths while fostering a sense of belonging and community. What are your top priorities? • Center students within the district's decision-making: always focusing on better outcomes for our students, especially regarding equity, inclusion, safety, belonging and social justice. • Be a responsible steward of public funds: balancing the district's reserve between having the ability to survive an emergency and spending tax dollars inside our classrooms. • Protect our students and their future: ensuring access to books, making decisions that promote climate justice, protecting our students from violence, and ensuring equitable access to health care for students and families. Why is it so important to have educators on school boards? Educator voices on the school boards of California will always speak up for students and the importance of learning. We will hold districts accountable when they act like businesses and lose sight of the purpose of edu- cation. We bring a classroom perspective that is often missing from important board discussions. What does it mean to you to be part of the move- ment to protect and defend our public schools? (It) makes me a little bit sad, but also filled with hope and humility. I'm sad that we have allowed the state of education in California to fall prey to extremist and par- tisan politics that make this movement necessary. I am [hopeful] because California teachers step up when our students need us most. Teachers are putting our foot down, literally pounding the pavement, to keep educa- tion focused on what matters most — the students. How important is the November election? "When we fight, we win!" Teachers, it's time to stand up and fight back. 28 cta.org Election 2024