OUR KIDS

I taught in one of the most diverse schools in the county for 32 years. These kids (67% Hispanic, 22% black, the rest Indian, Asian and white), they called me mom. I was voted favorite teacher 30 out of 32 years at AHHS, I wrote hundreds of college recommendations, I helped families apply for DACA, I got them jobs, helped with admission into Annapolis, developed monthly Life is All About Choices programs for the seniors, took kids on trips, took kids camping, held graduation parties at my home for decades, went to their homes for extra help, threw baby showers, attended their weddings and heartbreakingly, some funerals, was responsible for Cultural activities, attended their sports games (even when they went to local colleges, created more school spirit than any other teacher there and more. I treat every child with the utmost respect and it was my privilege to “help little people become good big people”.

Some of my plans for our kids will give them the opportunities to meet kids county wide while learning and having some county fun.

As a legislator, I want to bring these opportunities countywide. I’ll organize programs like Senior Class Clash at the county center; county wide school meet ups where students compete in sports, arts, trivia, and obstacle courses; County wide Community Service Days that would include helping clean their schools, parks and bike/walking paths, firehouses and police stations; visit/become penpals seniors and veterans; volunteer at animal shelters; expanded Life Is About Choices programs, teaching business etiquette, branding, meeting with law enforcement and veterans, talk about tough topics, exploring college, trade, or military paths, and creating mentorships and form buddy systems.

I’ll also focus on mental health programs, connecting kids with peers for support, and giving them safe, structured ways to learn, lead, and grow. These activities will help all our kids — not just academically, but as compassionate, responsible members of Westchester. Our kids are Westchesters future. Let’s give them the skills, pride and conections they need to thrive.