Building Stronger Community Connections: A Plan for Garvey School District's Future

Now More Than Ever, We Need Each Other

In today’s world, more than ever, strong community connections are critical to the success of our students, schools, and families. The Garvey School District is home to a diverse population, with vibrant Chinese, Hispanic, and other communities playing vital roles in shaping our children's futures. As we move forward, fostering deeper relationships among parents, teachers, local businesses, and community members is essential for creating a truly supportive educational environment.

As a candidate for the Garvey School District Board, I’m committed to uniting these community pillars. My goal is to ensure that everyone whether a parent, teacher, or business leader has a role in supporting our schools, enriching the student experience, and helping each child succeed.

Why Community Connections Matter

Strengthening community ties isn’t just a nice to have it’s a necessity for building a thriving school district. When we all work together, students benefit from enriched learning, better support systems, and greater opportunities.

1. Enhancing Student Learning:
Partnering with local businesses, organizations, and families allows us to offer students opportunities beyond the classroom. Mentorship programs, internships, and after-school activities provide students with hands-on experience and real-world learning that helps prepare them for future success.

2. Building a Supportive Environment:
When schools and communities collaborate, we create a safety net for students. Parents, teachers, and community leaders can work together to solve problems, ensure every child feels supported, and help address issues that go beyond academics—like mental health and emotional well-being.

3. Fostering Cultural Understanding:
The Garvey School District’s rich cultural diversity is one of our greatest strengths. By fostering programs that celebrate this diversity, we create an inclusive environment where students learn to respect and understand different cultures, creating a more unified community.

My Detailed Plan to Strengthen Community Connections

If elected to the Garvey School District Board, I will work to build stronger community ties through the following initiatives:

1. Creating Meaningful Partnerships with Local Businesses and Organizations

I will focus on forming strong relationships with local businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders to provide real-world learning opportunities. These partnerships can offer internships, mentorship programs, and financial support for school events and extracurricular activities. By integrating local resources into our schools, students gain exposure to the wider world while building connections that can serve them in their future careers.

Execution Plan:

• Identify key local businesses and organizations aligned with our schools’ needs.

• Schedule meetings with business owners to explore internship and mentorship opportunities.

• Develop a platform for businesses to collaborate with schools on community events and sponsorships.

2. Hosting Community Engagement Events

I believe in the power of gathering bringing people together to share ideas, celebrate student successes, and discuss district goals. I will advocate for regular community engagement events, like town halls, cultural festivals, and student showcases, where everyone in the community can participate.

Execution Plan:

• Create a calendar of quarterly engagement events to celebrate achievements and foster dialogue between families, schools, and the broader community.

• Partner with local businesses to sponsor these events, ensuring they are well-supported and meaningful.

3. Expanding Volunteer and Parental Involvement Opportunities

Volunteers are an invaluable asset to our schools, whether they’re assisting in classrooms, organizing events, or providing mentorship. I will work to expand volunteer opportunities for parents and community members, ensuring that everyone can contribute in ways that benefit our students.

Execution Plan:

• Develop an easy-to-access online volunteer portal where parents and community members can sign up for events, in-school support, or after-school programs.

• Establish a Parent-Community Council that can serve as a platform for sharing ideas, planning events, and getting involved in district-wide initiatives.

4. Enhancing Parental Involvement through Communication

Parents are a child’s first teacher. By providing them with the tools and resources they need to support their children’s education, we set students up for success. I will push for better communication between schools and parents, especially for non-English-speaking families. This will include bilingual communications, workshops, and programs that invite parents to take an active role in their children’s education.

Execution Plan:

• Introduce bilingual communication tools and platforms for non-English-speaking parents to stay informed about their child’s progress.

• Create workshops and forums designed to help parents understand the curriculum, homework, and school policies.

5. Celebrating Cultural Diversity and Inclusion

Cultural festivals, language exchange programs, and multicultural education initiatives are crucial for creating an inclusive learning environment. I will advocate for programs that celebrate the district’s cultural richness, providing students and families opportunities to share and learn from each other’s heritage.

Execution Plan:

• Organize district-wide cultural festivals that invite community members to share their traditions and celebrate diversity.

• Introduce curriculum elements that integrate cultural awareness and appreciation into everyday learning.

Q&A: Community Connections and What They Mean

1. Why are community connections so important for Garvey School District?
Building strong ties between schools and the community allows us to offer more comprehensive support to students. It creates a safety net that goes beyond academics and fosters student success both inside and outside the classroom.

2. How do local businesses benefit from partnering with schools?
Businesses benefit by gaining access to future talent, enhancing their community reputation, and contributing to the education of the next generation. Students gain valuable work experience, and businesses get a chance to give back.

3. How will increased parental involvement impact students?
When parents are actively involved in their child’s education, students perform better academically and socially. Engaged parents create a strong support system that encourages children to succeed.

4. What steps will you take to improve communication with non-English-speaking families?
I will implement bilingual communication platforms and create workshops to ensure parents of all backgrounds can stay informed and participate in school activities.

5. How will you promote cultural diversity within the district?
I plan to advocate for cultural festivals, language exchange programs, and curriculum updates that celebrate the district’s diversity, ensuring that students learn to appreciate and respect different cultures.

Let’s Build a Stronger Community Together

Now more than ever, we need to come together to support our children, our schools, and each other. Our community is our strength, and when we work together, there’s no limit to what we can achieve. As your candidate for the Garvey School District Board, I’m dedicated to bringing parents, teachers, businesses, and local leaders together to create a brighter future for every student.

If you’d like to share your ideas, ask questions, or get involved, feel free to reach out. I believe in open communication, and I’m eager to hear from you!

Contact Information:
Phone: +1-626-553-0559
Email: info@voteforsusiecubas.com

Together, we can build a school district where every student, parent, and community member thrives. Thank you for your support!

Empowering Bilingual Brilliance: Strengthening Dual Language Learning in Garvey School District

In the Garvey School District, where Chinese and Hispanic students make up a significant portion of the population, dual language learning is essential for fostering academic success and social integration. Language barriers can hold students back, but a strong dual language program can help overcome these obstacles while promoting bilingualism and biliteracy as essential tools for future success. My goal is to ensure that all students, regardless of their first language, have equal opportunities to excel both academically and culturally.

My Plan for Strengthening Dual Language Learning

If elected to the Garvey School District Board, I will prioritize several key initiatives to enhance and expand dual language programs across the district.

Here’s how I plan to make that happen:

1. Expanding Dual Language Immersion Programs

I will advocate for the expansion of dual language immersion programs that integrate Chinese and Spanish alongside English. Immersion programs are proven to help students achieve fluency in both languages by the time they reach middle school. My plan focuses on early exposure to these languages, ensuring that students are not only bilingual but also biliterate. This provides them with an academic and cognitive advantage that will benefit them throughout their lives.

2. Cultural Integration in the Curriculum

Language learning must be accompanied by cultural understanding. I will work to include cultural studies in the curriculum, helping students learn about the rich history and traditions of the cultures that speak the languages they are studying. This approach will foster greater cross-cultural awareness, empathy, and respect, which are vital in today’s diverse and interconnected world.

3. Teacher Professional Development

Teachers are at the core of successful dual language programs. I will ensure that our educators receive comprehensive professional development, including training in bilingual instructional strategies and access to the latest resources in language education. By providing ongoing support and development opportunities, we can ensure our teachers are fully equipped to offer high-quality dual language instruction.

4. Parental and Community Involvement

Parents are crucial to the success of dual language programs. I will create initiatives that actively involve parents in their children’s language learning journey, offering workshops and resources to help parents support their children at home. Additionally, I will strengthen ties with local community organizations to create a robust network of support for dual language learners, ensuring that families and students have access to the resources they need to succeed.

The Impact of Dual Language Learning

The benefits of dual language programs extend far beyond language proficiency. Here’s why they are so important for the Garvey School District:

1. Improved Academic Achievement:
   Research shows that students in dual language programs consistently outperform their peers in standardized tests, particularly in math, reading, and science. Bilingualism enhances cognitive function, leading to better problem-solving skills and academic outcomes.

2. Cultural Inclusivity:
   Dual language programs promote cultural inclusivity by allowing students to maintain a connection to their cultural heritage while learning a new language. This helps create a learning environment where students from different backgrounds feel valued and respected.

3. Better Future Opportunities:
   In today’s global economy, being bilingual is a significant asset. Dual language learners are better equipped for careers in business, healthcare, education, and other fields that require multilingual communication. The ability to speak more than one language opens doors to a wider range of opportunities.

Q&A: Addressing Key Questions About Dual Language Learning

1. Why is dual language learning important for the Garvey School District?
Dual language learning bridges language gaps, helps students maintain their cultural identity, and equips them with bilingual skills essential for academic success and future career opportunities.

2. How will these programs be funded?
By applying for state and federal grants, such as the California Bilingual Education Grant, and seeking partnerships with local businesses, we can secure the funding needed to expand our dual language programs.

3. How quickly can these programs be implemented?
I plan to start with pilot programs at select schools, expanding district-wide once we establish a solid foundation. With the right resources, we can begin implementing dual language programs as early as the next school year.

4. What role do parents play in these programs?
Parents are integral to their children’s language learning. I will create workshops and resources to support parents in engaging with their children’s bilingual education, helping them continue learning at home.

5. How will dual language programs benefit English-speaking students?
English-speaking students will gain bilingual skills, opening up future academic and career opportunities. Learning a second language improves cognitive abilities and prepares students for success in a global economy.

A Vision for the Future

Bilingualism is a powerful skill that opens doors for students in the Garvey School District. Dual language programs will not only enhance academic achievement but also cultivate a more inclusive and culturally rich learning environment. As a candidate for the Garvey School District Board, I am committed to making bilingual brilliance a reality for all our students.

Together, we can create a future where every student, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive.

Let’s Discuss the Future Together

I’m passionate about bringing dual language programs to every classroom in the Garvey School District. If you have ideas, questions, or want to learn more about my vision, feel free to reach out to me!

Contact Information:
Phone: +1-626-553-0559
Email: info@voteforsusiecubas.com

Together, we can make the Garvey School District a place where every student shines both academically and culturally.

Why I’m Running for the Garvey School Board: A Personal Story

As a mother of two daughters growing up in the Garvey School District, my connection to our schools is deeply personal. I’m not just another candidate; I’m a community member, neighbor, and mother who believes in the potential of every child in this district. Our students deserve the best education, and I am running for the Garvey School Board to ensure that every student has the opportunity to thrive in a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment. Through my experience with the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) and my professional background in law, I have gained a unique understanding of the challenges and opportunities our schools face. I am ready to take these challenges head-on and help lead our district toward a brighter future.

My Connection to Rosemead and the Garvey School District

Rosemead has been my home since 2018, but my family has been rooted in this community since 2004. We've owned property here for over 20 years, and during that time, I’ve come to understand the unique needs of our community. The Garvey School District, founded in 1891, serves portions of Monterey Park, San Gabriel, Rosemead, and parts of unincorporated Los Angeles County. It’s the second oldest elementary district in Los Angeles County, and I’m proud to call it home. The district serves over 6,000 students from diverse backgrounds, predominantly Asian and Latin American. Raising my daughters here and being actively involved in their schools, including Arlene Bitely Elementary School, I’ve seen both the strengths and areas where improvement is needed. This personal experience drives my passion to advocate for every student in our district, just as I do for my own children.

Why I’m Running

I’m running for the Garvey School Board because I want to make a meaningful difference for all families in our district. Our community is diverse, vibrant, and filled with potential. The Garvey School District operates nine elementary schools, one pre-K-8 school, and two intermediate schools. These schools serve more than 6,000 students from a wide range of backgrounds. I believe that every child deserves access to the best educational opportunities, and I’m committed to advocating for programs that foster academic excellence, personal growth, and inclusivity. I’ve seen firsthand the impact strong leadership can have on a school district, and I’m ready to bring my skills and passion to the Garvey School Board to ensure we continue to move forward.

Expanding STEAM Programs for a Brighter Future

As the world rapidly evolves, technology and innovation play a crucial role in shaping the future. Our students need to be equipped with the skills to succeed in this digital landscape. That’s why I’m a strong advocate for expanding STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) programs in our schools. The district has made strides, but we need to do more to ensure that students are prepared for the future. Whether it’s through hands-on learning in robotics, coding, or creative arts, every child should have the opportunity to explore these fields. STEAM education fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity—skills that will help our students thrive. As a member of the Garvey School Board, I will work to expand resources and opportunities in STEAM education by partnering with local businesses and organizations to create valuable learning experiences.

Ensuring Student Safety

As a mother, nothing is more important to me than ensuring the safety of our children. I want every student in the Garvey School District to feel safe and supported at school. I will work to enhance safety measures across all of our schools by implementing comprehensive security protocols that address both physical safety and mental health support. From anti-bullying campaigns to accessible counseling services, I will advocate for a culture of inclusion and security. When students feel safe, they can focus on their education and personal growth.

A Vision for the Future

My vision for the Garvey School District is one where every student, regardless of their background, has the tools they need to succeed. The Garvey School District, with its rich history and deep ties to the community, should continue to lead the way in educational innovation while staying true to the values of inclusion, equity, and excellence. We need to empower our teachers, support our students, and involve parents and guardians in the decision-making process. I am committed to creating a district where every voice is heard and every student has the opportunity to thrive. Together, we can build a school district that not only excels academically but also helps students become responsible, well-rounded citizens.

If elected to the Garvey School Board, I promise to bring strong leadership, transparency, and a commitment to creating positive change. Let’s work together to build a brighter future for every student in our district.

Connect with Me

I am always open to discussing the future of our schools.

If you’d like to chat or share your thoughts, you can reach me anytime at info@voteforsusiecubas.com or

text/call me at +1-626-553-0559.

As I look back on this journey, I am filled with gratitude for the support I’ve received from this incredible community.

A special thank you to the staff at Arlene Bitely Elementary School for the joy and energy you’ve brought to the first week of school.

To the PTA, parents, and families your support has meant the world to me. And most importantly, thank you to the amazing kids who show up every day and remind us why this work matters.

I love this community and would be honored to serve it on the Garvey School Board. Let’s make this year one to remember and keep working toward an incredible future together!

Together, we can make a difference!

Thank You!

"For Our Kids, Our Community, Our Future."