As a longtime educator and student advocate, I am running to represent voices of an often-unheard student population in our community. In my 15-plus years serving Morgan Hill, Gilroy, and San Jose public schools as a teacher and leader, I’ve been deeply invested in the future of our students. I understand firsthand the challenges our children face, and as your Trustee, I will work tirelessly to ensure their success.

This is a critical time for public education. Financial constraints, mental health crises, and learning gaps are impacting students across the nation, and Morgan Hill is no exception.

I will advocate for solutions that put students first, with a clear focus on equity, inclusivity, and academic excellence.

My extensive experience in education — including being recognized as Teacher of the Year by GUSD in 2009, SJUSD in 2015, and MHUSD in 2021 and my current role as a Communication Studies Instructor at Gavilan College — gives me a deep understanding of what students need to succeed in today’s world.

As a parent and an educator, I understand both sides of the educational experience.

I will advocate for increased professional development opportunities and practical tools that enhance efficiency, enabling educators to thrive in their roles, focusing on teaching rather than assuming yet another job duty.

I will continue to support our mental health services in our schools as our students continue to experience unprecedented levels of anxiety.

I will focus on seeking sustainable funding sources while also considering the recommendations of the MHUSD Budget Advisory Committee. By collaborating with city, county, and local nonprofits to address service overlaps, we can ensure efficient resource allocation and long-term financial stability for quality education.

I will champion to uphold diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives as every student deserves an education that reflects and respects their unique background, identities, abilities, and strengths.

In times of uncertainty, we need thoughtful, experienced leaders who understand our community and our schools.

My students describe me as a passionate advocate and dedicated educator, and I will bring that same passion and commitment to the MHUSD Board. Visit: www.andrade4mhusd.com

With deep roots in a family of educators, I am a passionate advocate for students in our community. I believe that a successful district, along with its schools and teachers, plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of our youth from elementary through high school.

As your MHUSD Trustee for Area 5, I will work closely with our community to ensure that ALL students have the opportunities they deserve to excel and succeed throughout their educational journey.

I have been married to my husband for 35 years, and together we have raised a blended family. I am a proud mother of two daughters, two stepchildren, and six grandchildren. Two of my grandchildren attend school in the Morgan Hill Unified School District.

My father, who earned his master’s degree in education, was a dedicated high school teacher, and my mother was a passionate preschool teacher until retirement.

I have gained a deep understanding of our educational system through their experiences and my own as a mother and grandmother.

I am deeply committed to ensuring that each of my grandchildren as well as all children have a joyful educational experience and access to the resources needed for their success.

Join me in bringing fresh energy and innovative ideas to our board leadership. I would be honored to have your support. Please feel free to connect with me at [email protected].

It has been an honor to serve you on the Morgan Hill Unified School Board since 2016 and I humbly seek a third term today. I have represented you ethically and faithfully and with a relentless determination to promote academic success for every child.  As a parent and a child health professional, I bring a unique combination of passion and expertise to the challenges facing our community and I bring an ability to recognize and uplift our successes.

I commit to continuing to work with students, parents, teachers, fellow board members and other experts to address problems and pursue success in these areas: improved achievement for every student, school campuses that are welcoming and safe for all and a balanced budget.

Our district has the staff talent, the caring community, and a student body comprised of smart and vivacious young people — all ready to do this together.

With my professional expertise as a director at Child Advocates of Silicon Valley, a health educator at Stanford Children’s Health, eight years’ experience as a school board trustee, and 17 years as a parent in our schools, I am prepared to represent voters and champion public schools that welcome every child and family and provide the safe and caring and rigorous environment that each student needs to succeed.

I am your best choice to represent Trustee Area #6 on our school board.

For more information visit www.votemarypatterson.com.