San José Unified School District, Trustee Area 1

Teresa Castellanos, Ms.

http://www.teresaforsjusd.com/

The educational philosophy that guides me is justice & democracy. I believe that social justice & democracy are integral to the role of education. Education should be transformative in liberating students to understand society and their role in creating social change. I believe that every student brings the knowledge of their ancestors & community.

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?

   I think the position of school board member is one of the most important elected positions because it has to address the issues of the present needs of our student population at the same time that it has to develop the leadership of the future. The top three issues are housing, economic inequality & educational inequity. I will continue to push for expanding our definitions of inclusion & student support, advocate for affordable housing and support worker movements for economic justice.

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 always support programs that focus on early education & child care.  It is not only a way to address student & community needs but it is also an avenue to address staff retention & support if we also open up this avenue to staff.

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 have been an active advocate for SJUSD’s policy. In addition, I have supported TK expansion, Ethnic Studies classes expansion, and post-pandemic learning recovery. In addition, I have worked  to affirm Student Rights in addition to the SJUSD Uniform Grading Policy, and have supported the school boards resolutions  for Black Lives Matter, support for Asian & LGBTQ students and pro- immigrant policies. I will continue to lead in SJUSD’s social justice issues.

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

   As a parent of a special education student, I will always promote  the continued professional development of SJUSD’s staff: special education teams, general staff and coaching staff. I will always support the least restrictive environment with appropriate adaptations, accommodations, and modifications for the students’ individualized needs. I will always advocate for  the continued identification & applications of best practices and staff training to support student development & inclusion. I will advocate for special education sessions to always  be part of “family university” & other parent engagement 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?

   Always seeking to move our students forward, I have been a strong advocate for several important initiatives which include increasing mental health resources, staffing, student support and wellness centers. All these efforts are keys to expanding & improving student well-being and access to mental and behavioral health services, student success, inclusion & belonging. If re-elected I will continue to advocate & lead in the issues that support student wellbeing. I would like to expand the discussion on this important topic to include mental health support & services for parents & families too.