Checking the Box for School Board Trustee
Figuring who to vote for is personal and everyone uses different criteria to make this decision. For many, their rights, liberties and lives are connected to the type of leader they support. People often have a list of must-haves that candidates need to check off for them like “are they progressive?”, “are they inspirational in debates?”, “how have they voted in the past?”. Others vote straight party line, or follow the lead of their friends or family. But In the end, a person ultimately votes for a candidate they have faith in to lead with integrity and who represents the values they hold close.
This year’s race for Alameda school board is crowded with a diverse group of candidates who bring valuable skills and perspectives to the table. Choosing just three to fill the seats on the school board will be difficult.
I am writing this because throughout my campaign for the Alameda school board, I have been frequently asked “Why should I vote for YOU?” My decision to run for school board did not come lightly, I thought a great deal about why I would be the right person to guide the school district during the difficult days ahead. I determined that I had not only the right experience and skills for this role but also the fortitude to make tough decisions. This was the right time to run. And now, I think it’s important to share my vision for the school district and hopefully tick off enough boxes to gain your support and your vote.
When it comes down to it, I want a school district that builds confident leaders and that uplifts students who are furthest from their educational goals in safe, welcoming educational environments. I want AUSD to live up to its motto of “Everybody Belongs Here” by championing policies and procedures that truly reflect these words, not just as a motto but as a culture. A culture where students and families of all structures, races, ethnicities and abilities have a voice, where they feel included, and where they have access to the same technology, classes, resources and innovations no matter which end of the island they live on or which school they attend.
In the end, the faith a voter puts into an elected official with their vote is like making a promise. My promise to you, the voters of Alameda, is to ask the tough questions that lead to positive dialogue and effective change. I promise to be well-researched, thoughtful, data-driven and culturally responsive when making decisions. I promise to listen to stakeholders and do what is in the best interest of better educational outcomes. And finally, I promise to look at all my actions with a lens of equity, inclusion, excellence and innovation.
I hope that I may have checked off enough of your voting criteria boxes to earn the ultimate checked-box on your ballot November 3rd. And if I have not checked all the boxes and you need more – please visit my website – www.little4AUSD.com or reach out for a conversation.
Heather Little
Candidate for Alameda School Board