Cupertino Union School District

Long Jiao

https://longforcusd.com/

I am dedicated to fostering transparency and enhancing community engagement in CUSD. Through community surveys, I ensure every voice is heard. My priorities are: Education First—prioritizing student success, and Fiscal Responsibility—wisely managing resources for maximum benefit.

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?

   Trust in the district is dwindling as it failed to meet families’ needs, leading many to switch to private schools. Students learn at different paces, requiring tailored approaches. To address these issues:
   Transparency and Community Engagement: Restore trust by ensuring every voice is heard.
   Education First: Prioritize high-quality education for all students.
   Fiscal Responsibility: Wisely manage resources to invest in technology for personalized education.

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?

   CUSD’s CuperDoodle Preschool program is a great start. To improve access to high-quality childcare and preschool programs, I propose expanding CuperDoodle to more sites, ensuring more families can benefit. Additionally, we should collaborate with community organizations to provide diverse, inclusive, and affordable childcare options that meet the needs of all families in our district.

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?

   To increase equity of opportunity, I will ensure fiscal responsibility to reduce wasteful spending, allowing more resources for education. Investing in technology, especially AI, can provide personalized learning tools for every student. CUSD already offers free lunch for all students; I will ensure the meals are healthy and sufficient. Additionally, I will advocate for expanded access to preschool, tutors, and enrichment activities to support low-income families and children of color.

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

   To improve inclusion and outcomes for children with disabilities, I will ensure all school facilities are fully accessible. By maintaining fiscal responsibility and reducing wasteful spending, we can allocate more resources to education. Investing in technology, particularly AI, will provide personalized tools to meet each student’s needs. Additionally, I will advocate for specialized training for teachers and staff to better support students with disabilities and their families.

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?

   To improve children’s well-being and access to mental and behavioral health services, I will ensure fiscal responsibility to reduce wasteful spending, allowing more resources to be allocated to these critical areas. By prioritizing mental health, we can provide comprehensive support services, including counseling and behavioral interventions, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive both academically and emotionally.