I’ve seen firsthand how education shapes lives and how a lack of access limits futures.

When I went to enroll my first child in Malden schools, I was prepared to pay any price to give him a better start than I had. Imagine my shock when I learned there were no fees. In Utah, where I spent most of my school years, paying school fees was an annual burden. My family could barely afford food and rent, let alone hundreds of dollars each year for a “public” education. I almost didn’t graduate because we couldn’t afford the fee to grade my senior project. These struggles shaped my belief that education is the key to breaking cycles of poverty and unlocking brighter futures for all.

When moving to MA over a decade ago, we searched for a community that reflected the values I grew up with; values of doing your best, being there for each other, and fostering a supportive, village mentality. We found these along with a richness of diversity, a cultural orchard, and a true global village that welcomed us with open arms.

We’ve fallen in love with the city and the vibrancy of its community celebrations. Whether it’s the Chinese New Year Lion Dance or the Saint Rocco procession, there’s always something that reminds me why we chose Malden. We’ve since grown our family with two more children, and we recently adopted a 17-year-old who needed a loving home. All four of my children attend Malden Public Schools, and it is for their future; and every student’s; that I’ve worked hard for our community.

My dedication to Malden runs deep. Over the years, I’ve worked as a faith-based nonprofit director, volunteered as a community organizer, and advocated for families in need. I’ve driven carpool for families in public housing, supported students facing educational inequities, opened my doors to at-risk youth, and fought for fair treatment of gifted learners left behind under the false banner of inclusion. This commitment drives me to run for the School Committee.

In Malden, we say, “Proud Past, Strong Future.” I’m proud of my service to this community, and now, I want to help shape a stronger future where every student, regardless of background, has the opportunities and respect they deserve. Our district’s challenges reflect larger societal issues, but together, we can create meaningful change. We don’t need to choose between academic excellence and diversity, we need both. They complement each other and create an environment where every student can thrive.

Recent reports show that Malden has a disproportionately higher percentage of high-needs, low-income, and English learner student populations compared to the statewide numbers. The students of Malden face more challenges than their peers. Education is the key to breaking cycles of poverty and unlocking brighter futures.

Our children need more than memorizing content. They need a curriculum that prepares them to not only survive, but thrive. With trades dying out and entrepreneurship increasingly difficult, Malden’s district is behind the times. Only 2.4% of our students have taken digital literacy courses, far below the state average of 38.3%. Our children deserve the tools they need to succeed in an evolving world.

As your School Committee representative, I will focus on policies that directly benefit our students:

Equitable, Inclusive Curriculum

• Ensure the curriculum reflects Malden’s diversity, including accurate history, multicultural perspectives, and representation for all backgrounds.
  
  

• Adopt evidence-based literacy and math programs that close achievement gaps.
  
  

• Strengthen arts, music, and vocational training to help students discover and pursue their strengths.
  
  

Transparent, Student-Centered Budgeting

• Push for transparency in budget decisions, showing how every dollar benefits students.
  
  

• Protect funding for extracurriculars, enrichment programs, and technology.
  
  

• Seek grants and partnerships to stretch district dollars without sacrificing quality.
  
  

Accountable, Accessible Leadership

• Implement regular public reporting on district progress.
  
  

• Create open lines of communication between the School Committee, parents, educators, and students.
  
  

• Hold leadership accountable for measurable student outcomes.
  
  

It’s time to put our neighbors first—above politics, disputes, and differences. Together, we can build a stronger, more connected Malden, where every student thrives.

Thank you for your support. I look forward to engaging with all of you on this exciting journey ahead!