Cheryl's Platform
I am running to serve on the Claremont School Board, Trustee Area 5, because I want to contribute to our District’s well-earned reputation of academic excellence, which has been rooted in high expectations, exemplary instruction, and unwavering attention to the whole child. I know first-hand that when a school board works as a cohesive body to set a clear and ambitious vision, align resources accordingly, and provide support and accountability, educators thrive and students succeed.
If I am elected as a Trustee to the Claremont School Board, my priorities will be:
Constructive Relationships
I believe the best outcomes for students originate from respectful, thoughtful, and purposeful collaboration and communication among stakeholders. Navigating difficult topics and developing student-centered policies requires healthy and respectful relationships among stakeholders.
Supporting the Post-Pandemic Student
Education has been forever changed by the pandemic. Post-pandemic students are grappling with learning loss and a rapidly changing world, which require support for academic and instructional excellence, career and technical education, arts integration, co- and extracurricular activities, and transformative uses of educational technology.
Fiscal Responsibility and Alignment of Priorities
The State of California is facing a budget shortfall and unprecedented population decline that will impact school funding. Like other school districts, Claremont Unified School District is facing declining enrollment and decreasing revenue that will require difficult budget decisions and creative solutions over the next three years.
School Safety and Mental and Behavioral Health
One issue that all stakeholders can agree on is the desire for our students to be happy, healthy, and safe. Supporting the post-pandemic student requires attention to school safety and mental and behavioral health. Teachers are struggling with classroom behavior, students are drowning in mental health crises, and parents and caregivers are demanding safe campuses.