Santa Clara County Voter's Guide On Children's Issues

Evergreen School District

Patti Andrade

https://www.votepattiandrade.com

In order for our children to have and create a successful future we must ensure that they have access to an equitable education, safe housing, access to fresh and healthy food, and both physical and mental health care. Schools are the heart of our communities & we must ensure they continue to breathe life into our cities now and in the future.

  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?

    Affordable housing, food insecurity, and lack of health care. We cannot build housing fast enough to keep up with the demand so we must look at other options for temporary housing and housing alternatives. When we look at alternatives to permanent housing we must ensure that they are family friendly and safe. The cost of food is affecting our families and we need to connect our family with food banks & other non-profits. We know that many families cannot afford regular visits to the doctor. Community schools can provide much needed physical and mental health support to our students and families.

  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?

    Evergreen School District currently partners with the YMCA, City of San Jose, and other partners to provide after school care for many of our families. Our district has also expanded the TK program at many of our schools. I will continue to work with outside partners to offer parents options for afterschool care so that families may continue to work and provide for their family.

  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?

    Using data to identify our students with greater needs and building partnerships with local agencies and non-profits helps us in supporting the students who need help the most, but providing support for our students is only part of the solution. We must also support their families and connect them with resources to empower them. Many resources already exist that are not utilized enough & we need to do our best to connect our families to those resources. For example, the San Jose Library offers free tutoring, online resources, free hotspots, and both online and in person workshops for students and families.

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

    When we speak about equity we must also include children with disabilities and their families. Our staff needs to have ongoing professional development that helps us be inclusive of our students. We also need to connect with the families and listen to what it is that they would like to see in the district and ask them how they may be better supported. We cannot assume that we know best and our conversations must include the families of our students. Together we can create a more inclusive environment.

  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?

    Our district currently has 3 wellness centers and Parent Support Circles. Support Circles are a nurturing space to receive and give support and connect with other parents. They are led by a Certified Grief Specialist who helped our families navigate the pandemic and the sense of loss that came with students being home and adjusting to changes. We have continued with the Support Circles as they have become an integral part of the lives of our families. I will continue to build relationships with our city, county, non-profits, and other agencies to support our families. I also serve on the Santa Clara County Behavioral Health Board where I also advocate for services for all families.