Board Member — Cupertino Union School District

I am a nine year volunteer and leader in CUSD, serving collaboratively on the PTO Board, as School Site Council Chair and on all 4 of CUSD’s standing advisory committees.  In 2017 I was the recipient of the Cupertino Educational Endowment Foundation's (CEEF) Community Service Leadership Award, recognizing my years of committment to the students of CUSD.  As a product of CUSD schools myself growing up in Sunnyvale, running for the school board is really coming full circle for me. These are the schools and community that helped to raise me, these are the schools and community helping me to raise my own family.    After a rewarding career as a Physical Therapist and Healthcare Director, I have spent the better part of the last decade dedicated to our CUSD students and this district. I stand for academic success for all learners, balancing the strive for academic excellence with the social and emotional well being and needs of every child. I believe every child needs resources, support, mentorship and love to thrive and that this is best accomplished when parents, our school district and our wider community and elected officials all come together in partnership for kids.  My goal is to develop learners who embrace critical thinking, innovation, problem solving, creativity and compassion.      I am honored to be serving on our CUSD Budget Advisory for two school years now, and have taken the time to become knowledgeable about our challenging district budget. In the next three years our district plans to embark on some ambitious endeavors including: the development of a Strategic Plan, the opening of a new school for the first time since 2005, a district wide STEAM initiative, and the adoption of new curricula in reading and science domains. These are just a few of the complex issues that will require our entire community to come together for success.  I have the committment, vision and experience to help lead us as a voice for all kids at the decision-making table.     I'm very proud to be endorsed by our Cupertino Teachers (Cupertino Education Association) this cycle, along with all 4 of our State Senators and Assemblymembers, Congressman Ro Khanna and over 40 local elected officials and school leaders. I am grounded in the shared history of our community and committed to our shared future. I would respectfully ask to earn your vote for Governing Board Member, Cupertino Union School District.   Best, Lori    

I have been a Community Volunteer, PTA leader and an Engineering Leader/Manager over a dozen years.

As an active volunteer and PTA leader, I have been closely associated with CUSD schools and community since 2005. Currently serving as the President of Monta Vista High School PTSA, Cupertino Fremont Sunnyvale Council PTA Leadership VP, and California SIXTH-District PTA Executive board member.

 

I have assumed various volunteer roles in CUSD schools over the years including School Site Council President and PTA president of Faria Elementary School, Finacial Secretary and Exec VP of Kennedy Middle School PTA and Exec  VP of Cupertino Fremont Sunnyvale Council PTA. 

I am also serving as the Regional Commissioner of American Youth Soccer Organization, Cupertino Region - a non-profit national organization with the focus on delivering quality youth Soccer programs. The organization supports about 300 Children and youth in the region.

I have been an Engineering leader working in Silicon Valley companies for over 20 years. My son and daughter had attended CUSD Elementary and middle schools. 

Awards:

PTA Honorary Service Award  

Note: This award is given to recognize an individual or organization for outstanding service to children and youth in the community, going above and beyond what is asked of them.

Golden Oak award from CAPTA

 

Note: This award is given to recognize, as the most prestigious of the Honorary Service Awards to an individual who made significant contributions to the welfare of children and youth in a school or community.

Education to me is the most important tool which can make an impact on our country’s success. I strongly believe that Schools succeed when educators, parents, and communities collaborate.

My priorities:

- Transparency in governance

- Effective communication 

- Community involvement and Collaboration

-  staff development 

- Student Success

 

 

With declining enrollment and a $5 Million projected budget deficit Cupertino Union School District has some work to do to maintain its standing as a top-notch education district. I'll bring decades of accounting experience to the board with the intention of applying a fine tooth comb through the financials to identify new or expandable revenue sources and reducing or eliminating unnecessary expenses.

 

I am the Treasurer of Veterans Hospital Support Foundation raising funds to supplement the underserved and growing population of veterans. I also enjoy a recurring role as a Team Leader with GRID Alternatives bringing solar energy to lower socioeconomic Bay Area neighborhoods.

 

MBA San Jose State University

I am running for a seat on the Board of Education at my local Cupertino Union School District. My son William is entering Kindergarten this Fall at Stevens Creek Elementary and I want him to have the best possible education available.

My wife, Jessica, has taught me so much about the importance of mental health in our schools over the last five years while she worked at Gunn, Saratoga and now Fremont High School as a school based therapist. Every student deserves a solid education no matter what and we have to support them every way we can.

Balance is very important. There must be some sort of equilibrium between studies, social interactions, extracurricular activities and hands on experience like planting a seed or walking in nature. Technology has a place in education but it cannot be the central focus. Reading actual books and writing with pen and paper are lifelong valuable skills.