My journey into education didn't begin in Washington—it began at my mother's kitchen table.
For 36 years, my mother devoted her life to teaching children. Growing up, she often reminded me, "You are smart so you can help someone else." Those words became more than advice—they became my life's purpose.
As a classroom teacher in a Title I school, I saw brilliant students held back by barriers they did not create. I quickly learned that while great teachers can change lives, lasting change also requires better policy. That realization led me from the classroom into education leadership and public service.
Working in Head Start, I partnered with families and communities and witnessed the life-changing impact of access to early childhood education and family support. I also saw what happens when schools and families don't have the resources they deserve.
Today, as a federal education policy leader, I work to ensure millions of dollars in education funding reach the students and communities Congress intended to serve. But my most important title isn't "policy expert"—it's Mom. My two boys attend Ward 6 public schools. Like every parent, I want them to learn in safe schools, be taught by supported educators, and have every opportunity to succeed. I also know that my children cannot truly thrive unless every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Throughout my career, I have served education from every seat at the table—as a teacher, parent, school leader, nonprofit executive, and federal education policymaker. Those experiences have taught me that the best decisions are made when educators, families, and communities work together.
I am running for the DC State Board of Education because I believe every family deserves a voice, every educator deserves support, and every child deserves access to an excellent education—regardless of their neighborhood or ZIP code.
This campaign isn't about politics.
It's about our children.