For the past 18 months I have had the honor to serve as a governing board member of the Tempe Elementary School District No. 3. As a parent of three children in middle school in this school district, I believe that I represent the daily life within the schools. My volunteer work in the schools and with Arizona PTA led me to see the needs of our students and our educational system. As a social worker, I understand that people are passionate about our schools. I embrace the opportunity to listen to their concerns so that I can be an advocate for our students, teachers, and staff.
Our nation has had governing boards since 1642. The founders of our nation wanted to be sure that schools were controlled by local residents. Over the past 18 months, I have experienced first-hand that local control is still important today. How exciting it is when 150 people come to a board meeting to voice their concerns! School districts should be the basic structure of a democratic system. I am also grateful to the people who call me daily with their concerns—sometimes they give compliments. I believe that the partnership between the schools and the community is necessary in order to have successful schools and students. Read the rest of this entry »
I was brought into this country as a little girl of 2 years old of immigrant parents who wanted what all parents want for their children: a better opportunity. My parents were poor but they taught me values that guide me today in all that I do. They talked about the importance of honesty and integrity and hard work ethics. They taught me that education would be my eyes to the world and how I should continue on to finish school. Most of all they instilled in me the gratitude to this country and all the opportunities that it has to offer. They made me understand that I could be anything that I wished to be if I applied myself to my goals. I follow that belief today in all that I do.
I have been a member of south Phoenix almost all of my life. I raised my five children in this community and most of them still live here today. I am proud to be a part of the Roosevelt family and I have a passion to make the Roosevelt School District schools the best that they can possibly be.
Recently, I stood firm against a state takeover that our own state legislators sponsored and supported. I will always support my community against any violations or intrusions that compromise the dignity and pride that the people of south Phoenix possess. The people of this community need a voice that speaks for them and not for political reasons. All children can learn regardless of their socio-economic status and all the barriers that they face everyday of their lives; I believe this because I was one of these children. I know that RSD together with parents and with our community stake holders can continue the necessary improvements needed for positive change and academic success in our school district.
On July 31, 2008, the AZ State Board of Education ruled that there would be no state takeover of the Roosevelt School District. They recognized the significant progress in learning that this year’s AIMS tests revealed and the solid implementation of improvement that the district and the board had done to make this possible. The hard work and dedication that I was part of makes me feel very proud to be of this community and the Roosevelt school district. I will continue to advocate for our south Phoenix community and recognize the great work that our teachers have done and I will ensure that the success in the teaching and the learning of our children in Roosevelt will continue.
I am pleased to announce that I am a candidate for re-election to the Tempe Union High School District Governing Board in the November election. I am a former ASU teacher and administrator and have lived in the District for 38 years. I am the parent of four children who attended and graduated from our public schools.
I have a lifelong passion for children, families and public education. I truly believe that the future of our country lies in the strength of our local public schools.
Serving on the High School Board has been my first foray into serving in a public office and I have brought to it a strong community service background. I have previously served terms as President of the Tempe Human Relations Commission, Tempe Community Action Agency and Tempe Community Council. I have also served on the Boards of Directors of Tempe Leadership, Assistance for Independent Living and The Centers for Habilitation. My honors for this community service include the ASU’s Alumni Award for Outstanding Service, Tempe Community Council’s Don Carlos Humanitarian Award and Tempe Leadership’s Community Leader of the Year Award. Read the rest of this entry »
Anna Huberman-Arnaud
Current Occupation: Court Interpreter
Experience in education: Degree in Elementary School Education, Adjunct Professor College of Charleston, Co-chair Independence High School Planning
Team and IHS Site Council Community Representative.
Why are you running for school board?
I am a concerned parent, community member and public school advocate interested in the success of Glendale schools. I believe I can bring ideas and leadership abilities to the school district that will provide resources to our teachers and allow our children to learn in a safe environment where they can achieve their full potential. Read the rest of this entry »
Jason Williams speaks with Lela Alston at the July CTA retreat about her campaign. And, congratulations to Lela for far exceeding her goal for signatures!