Edwin Diaz: Experience as an educator will help build strong partnerships

Published in the October 24 – November 6, 2018 issue of Morgan Hill Life

Edwin Diaz

I was born in Gilroy and attended local public schools, including Gavilan College. I know the impact Gavilan had on my educational journey and understand the critical role community colleges continue to play in students’ lives, providing access to higher education and the guidance and technical training necessary to pursue careers of their choice.

I began my career as a high school teacher in Gilroy. During my 35 years in public education I have also served in positions of assistant principal, principal, director, assistant superintendent, and superintendent of both Gilroy and Pasadena Unified School Districts.

Since my retirement I have remained active throughout California with innovative practices and partnerships to improve public education. I continue to volunteer locally. I am currently President of the Gilroy Foundation Board of Directors, I serve on the Gavilan College President’s Latino Advisory Committee, and I mentor middle school students in leadership and community service.

As trustee, my priority will be to establish specific strategies and partnerships focused on increasing the number of students earning certifications, degrees or transferring to four-year colleges/universities. To accomplish this I will work to increase the number of students ready for college level coursework, provide career-themed instruction and pathways, and improve and enhance career guidance opportunities for students. Building partnerships with K-12, the business community, funders, and four-year college and universities are effective strategies for improvement. My experience in successfully establishing business and community partnerships and the lessons I learned will be helpful as we work toward establishing strong partnerships in South County.

The transparent and effective use of tax dollars is also one of my priorities. My experience successfully managing large education budgets and facility projects will help address Gavilan’s current financial challenges and oversight of a potential facilities bond.

My local roots, extensive education background, and experience in other communities with approaches to solving the most challenging issues facing public education, provide me with a perspective that will benefit Gavilan College.

Others agree, I have received more than 75 endorsements from elected officials, community and education leaders, and residents from Gilroy, Morgan Hill, and San Martin.