City of Milpitas, Mayor

Hon Lien

https://www.honformayor.com

Children are our future and families are the foundation for raising independent and intelligent citizens. As a previous school trustee, a mother of 4, now serving as council member, I am always focused on the environment in which our children will live and grow. I supported the two Child Development Center sites and Dual Immersion program.

1. Over 80% of voters polled say they want elected officials to prioritize children and families. What are the top three issues affecting our children and families and how will you make our region a place where all families can thrive?

   First is the Early Childhood, second is the Food insecurity and Housing insecurity.

2. High quality childcare improves school readiness and parents' workforce participation. What will you do to improve access to high quality childcare and preschool programs in our diverse communities?

   We should survey our existing families to see if they believe that we are meeting the needs. Increase funding and workforce housing are two areas where funding should be increased. A special emphasis should also be placed on single mother families.

3. Much of the student achievement gap has been linked to the opportunity gap that children in low-income families and children of color confront (e.g., lack of access to healthy food, preschool, tutors, and enrichment activities). If elected, what will you do to increase equity of opportunity?

   During COVID, our school district supplied chrome books to every student. As we moved forward, the city can work with the school district to identity areas where we might partnered with the school district to secure funding. These funds should be targeted towards the students affected by the achievement gap.

4. What steps will you take to improve inclusion and outcomes for children with disabilities and their families in our community?

   In Milpitas, this is a school district's responsibility but with my knowledge gained from serving as a trustee there may be areas that the school district might be open to outside support. This should come either with funds organizing retirees as tutors are working to expand opportunities in existing tutoring programs.

5. If elected, how will you use the resources of your new role to improve children's well-being and access to mental and behavioral health services?

   As mayor, I will make sure that we work very closely with the county to focus on the mental health needs on both our housed and unhoused residents. It is clear in California that addressing mental health is one of our most important priorities. As survey shows 1 out of 5 adults experienced mental health issues and 1 out of 6 to 7 children also experienced mental health issues.