Candidate for
Governing Board Member; Sulphur Springs Union Elementary School District

Mario Matute is originally from El Salvador Central America. He immigrated to the United States in 1983 without any English skills. He enrolled in English as a Second Language at La Cresenta Adult School while washing dishes in a local coffee shop. Six months later, he enrolled in Glendale College where he obtained an Associate Degree in Psychology, he graduated with honors. While attending Glendale College, he worked as Teacher Assistant for Pinewood and PLainview Elementary Schools of LAUSD.

In 1987, he enrolled in the California State University of Los Angeles where he obtained a BA in Psychology. He also attended Missiom College and obtained a Certificate in Chemical Dependency and Family Counseling.

Mario's passion and commitment has always been helping others and making the difference in peoples's lives. He worked for Gateways and Hillview Mental Health Center as Mental Health Counselor.

From 199 tp 1998. Mario worked as Director of the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles Community Service Center located in Pacoima where he developed and implemented several educational programs for children in public housing. In 1994, Mario developed a citywide spelling contest for elementary school children, and was able to coordinate a visit to the White House for the three toop winners.

Concerned by the fact that most of children attending elementary schools in the San Fernando Valley were reading below their grade level, Mario developed and implemented a readomg program named "Reach Me Teach Me". Such reading program was also implemented in other public housing around the nation including Puerto Rico. It was also recognized by the National Assocition of Housing Officials in Washington DC.

Currently, Mario is the Director of Valley Family Technology Project where he uses technology to improve learning in the schools.

Mario moved to Canyon Country in 1996, and has two children, Aaron and Jenny, they attend Canyon Springs Scool. Mario also serves on the Site Council for Canyon Springs School. Mario is a member of the Santa Clarita Human Relations Committee.

Mario is married to Stayce Matute, proud parents of Aaron and Jenny Matute. Thye reside at 7077 Hidaway ave #44, Canyoun Country, CA 91351. Tel 661-299-2461