What Distinguishes My Candidacy?

By Maria Diaz-Slocum

I would like the voters of the Redwood City School District to know what distinguishes my candidacy from that of the other candidates for this office. Here are some brief thoughts.

My personal integrity, ability to listen to others and my sense of equality and accountability are traits that will serve me well if elected to the Redwood City School Board. Living and working in Redwood City for over thirty years has given me a unique opportunity to see schools from three different perspectives: from the position of a student, a community member and a parent. In addition, my brothers and sisters are graduates of the local school system and my two children are currently enrolled in a Redwood City middle school.

I possess a strong sense of giving something back to the community. I have served my community for many years # giving freely of my time and energies. Most recently I was recognized in the Fair Oaks area for my contributions. My volunteer work includes serving the high school district, the elementary district, the Frontiers in Leadership program, teaching the Internet to first time users, and organizing many other community outreach efforts.

On a weekly basis I read to youngsters and talk with many students, teachers and parents in the Redwood City school system. My work and volunteer efforts have taken me to all our schools and I have had a unique opportunity to work with the city's leadership, the workingmen and women of our city and teachers, administrators and a wide spectrum of real people. I believe this is an asset for leadership as my experiences come from a cross section of our community rather than from one particular area.

My diverse background and life's journey have given me a unique vision for our district. I am prepared to deal with the issues objectively. I have a track record of working positively to craft solutions that work and I believe I can bring that same skill and expertise to bear on the difficult issues facing the Redwood City School District. I plan to view the issues from a broad perspective and the voters have my pledge that I will always make students the district's first priority.

Like my parents, I have high expectations for all children.

Through a new style of leadership, coupled with my diverse experiences and a track record of community involvement and contribution, I believe that I can make a significant difference on the Board and help all the children prepare for the future!