My husband, Bruce and I moved our family to Agoura Hills in 1996 so that our children Zach and Allison could attend schools in the highly respected Las Virgenes district. We were especially impressed by the dedication and commitment of the parents in this district to provide P. E., music and art to the students. This was clearly a community that supported excellence in education and one that did not allow cuts in state funding to stand in the way of ensuring all students had access to a well-rounded education. We chose to plant roots here so that our children could grow and prosper as students and individuals.
Prior to moving to this area, I managed multiple medical offices, and later became an account executive for an entertainment business management firm. There I worked with high profile celebrities, reviewing contracts, creating and executing budgets, and managing real estate and other investments.
Once Allison was settled in kindergarten at Willow Elementary, I got involved immediately as a room parent and became active in the PFA (Parent Faculty Association). Over the years, I co-chaired the yearbook, the gift wrap fundraiser, and started the annual Jog-a-Thon. When Allison was in 5th grade, I was elected PFA President. Under my leadership at Willow, we created the vital parent/faculty liaison position to enhance communication between administrators, teachers and parents.
At Lindero Canyon Middle School, I chaired the Jog-a-thon and scrip fundraisers and sat on the School Site Council Committee where we developed the annual School Based Coordinated Program. In addition, I was elected PFC (Parent Faculty Club) President for three years.
I served Agoura High in many capacities. I began working in the College and Career center to familiarize myself with school and district procedures regarding post-graduation plans. I was elected PFC President for four years and was part of the WASC accreditation team. As a member of the Counseling Roundtable committee I collaborated with principals, counselors and parents on how to better serve students and parents. I was instrumental in starting the Parent Education lecture series and the school-wide email group to enhance communication between school and home. Under my leadership we started Link Crew, a new program to support a smooth transition from middle to high school.
I have been enthusiastically devoted to district-wide and community based programs and committees. I have considerable experience with budgets at levels including PFC, school site, as well as district. As a member of the Student Success Task Force, we focused on enhancing student achievement K – 12. I was also an active member of the Superintendent’s Discussion Council and was involved with Technology, being part of the team to bring new websites to all of the schools. Collaborating with the Educational Foundation, I helped start the College Admission and Acceptance Program (CAAP) for all students, district-wide, in grades 8 – 12. I worked to help pass Bond Measures R, E and G for the benefit of schools across the district.
There is still more to do! Now that both of my children have graduated from Agoura High School, I want to continue to be a leader and champion of education in this district to keep our schools and communities strong.
