AZSW Endorses Norma Munoz for RSD

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.