Franklin-McKinley School District

Milan Balinton

https://www.votemilanbalinton.com

To improve the lives of all around me regardless of status or background. Raised in a household by my grandmother, she had a daycare that taught me about the diversity of family and the general needs of community. I’ve been committed to this mission for over 20 years and I won’t stop now.

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?

   - Cost of Living in San Jose/ Santa Clara County.
   - Free childcare
   - Access to after school programs
   I will continue to advocate for resources to support the needs of our children and families. I know firsthand that afterschool programs like CORAL or Girls on the Run support the development of our children and support after school hours. During this upcoming year my time will include advocacy for more funding through external sources, new partnerships, and changes to policies impacting families' ability to thrive in this region.
   

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?

   I will continue to advocate with our city and county officials for funding and access to these needed services. In our schools, work with the district to increase giving with a focus on the matters impacting our families and children.

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?

   I will continue to work with the district to enhance awareness about opportunities at school and in the community. During this next year, we are energized to work with external and internal agencies to remove barriers of food insecurities, after school programs with various partners like Catholic Charities, and support for best learning outcomes of our children.

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

   Currently I serve on the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging committee at Franklin-McKinley School District. As a new board member, it is my passion to ensure we continue to educate the entire community of schools, families, children, and all about the difference of our children with disabilities and ensure inclusion of all. As a diverse city and district, I have supported recognizing the diversity of our children and families by including celebrations of various cultures and educational opportunities.

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?

   I am a champion for mental health services in my everyday work and practices. Wellness, safety, and healing spaces are a top priority to support during my time in FMSD. Being honest, I have to acknowledge that we are facing some financial constraints, but we are working on ideas and plans to lessen the impact on the resources FMSD offers. I am one person but with the board, administrators, funders, and community we will make it through. My campaign theme is “Let’s Go Together” because leaders need the people and the people with us develop solutions to ensure our children and families get the support they need. I am committed to helping anyone that I can in service to others.