​Four Years of Progress – A Non-Exhaustive List of

Commitments from My Platform Four Years Ago

 

Return to School Full Time

I advocated for scheduling school board meetings throughout the summer of 2021 to prioritize a safe and timely return to in-person learning. It was a challenging time, but I believed strongly that parents should be part of the planning process. The data has since confirmed what we felt—students experienced real learning loss, and getting them back in classrooms quickly was critical.

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Addressed Learning Gaps with Targeted Support

As a parent, it was clear to me four years ago that our students had experienced learning loss. Our district has focused on student achievement by using testing data and a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) to identify needs and direct resources where they matter most. We’ve allocated funding for additional math and reading specialists—ensuring students get the help they need, when they need it. This work has been grounded in both academic research and a fiscally responsible approach.

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Stabilized Budget

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When I joined the Board, one of the biggest questions was how to prioritize and restore programs that had been cut due to budget constraints. Superintendent Harding hired an outstanding Business Manager, and together they began the critical work of streamlining and strengthening our financial planning. Under Superintendent Russo, our budget has continued to improve, guided by a conservative approach that still prioritizes student outcomes. We have rebuilt community trust in our fiscal stewardship and just passed a balanced budget during a time when our neighboring districts are facing cuts budgets.

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I’ve also supported the Riverdale Foundation and the Riverdale Parent Teacher Club by donating, maintaining donor relationships, and supporting both the annual campaign and auction. Community partnership and financial stability are key to sustaining the programs that make Riverdale exceptional. You can learn more about the Riverdale Foundation's recent success and financial health here.

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Retained Our Talented Superintendent

Superintendent turnover has been a persistent challenge at Riverdale, and across the state. One of my proudest accomplishments is working with our Superintendent, Vice Chair, Business Manager, Legal Counsel, and the Superintendent's Representative to negotiate the renewal of his contract. It was a lengthy and thoughtful process, and we’re fortunate he chose to stay.

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Talented superintendents seek communities where they feel respected, supported, and able to make a lasting impact. I’ve worked hard to create that environment at Riverdale. Our Superintendent manages the day-to-day operations of the district without the support of an HR department—making it essential that the board provides a respectful, stable, and professional working relationship.

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The contract renewal required balancing district interests, legal responsibilities, and the long-term success of our schools. I’m proud of how we navigated this process, and grateful for the steady leadership it ensures for our students and staff. 

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Restored a Second Foreign Language

Prior to my time on the board, the district had cut back to a single language offering. I’m proud that we brought French back—restoring a second language option that enriches our students’ learning and broadens their horizons.

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Revived Field Studies

These powerful, hands-on learning experiences were reintroduced. My son’s trip sailing the San Juan Islands reminded me just how transformative these programs can be. Field studies are back thanks to strong community support.

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Strengthened STEAM and Laid the Groundwork for IB

Riverdale’s strong academic reputation draws families to our district—and we’ve continued to elevate it through innovative STEAM initiatives. We have a thriving robotics program and students leading an advanced drone research and teaching project. Our recent math curriculum adoption was grounded in improving outcomes across grade levels. I’ve also championed the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, which emphasizes inquiry, global citizenship, and academic rigor. As we move into the final stages of IB implementation, we’re setting a foundation that will further enrich our STEAM offerings and support students in becoming creative problem solvers and critical thinkers.

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Boosted Enrollment and Strategic Marketing

Enrollment growth has been a shared and consistent goal. Our Superintendent has made it a priority each year—applying real-time research from his doctoral studies in education to strengthen our outreach. In my first year on the board, former Superintendent Dr. Harding also emphasized enrollment and produced a marketing video highlighting what makes Riverdale special. That video remains the most viewed on our YouTube channel. Together, these efforts have supported steady growth and helped keep Riverdale both competitive and community-focused.

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Progress on IB Program Implementation

Four years ago, I wrote that the International Baccalaureate program would be an amazing opportunity for Riverdale students—offering academic rigor and fostering global citizenship. I’m proud that we are now in the later stages of our application. IB will give our students a competitive edge and connect them with a broader world of learning. I hope to see it extend to the grade school, creating a more connected and enriched K–12 experience.

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Reinstated Foreign Exchange Program

When I learned that a family was denied an exchange opportunity post-pandemic, I discovered the program had been quietly paused. I worked to bring it back, restoring an essential cultural and educational experience.

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Built Accessibility Through Community Engagement

To increase transparency and strengthen connections, I held weekly Monday office hours during my first year on the board. Over time, I found that attending school and community events provided even more meaningful ways to engage. I remain accessible and responsive—whether by phone, email, or in person—because listening to our community is at the heart of my work. Our Board introduced the first Student Board Director from Riverdale High School. Under my mentorship, Abby Zurasky represented Riverdale so well at the annual Multonomah County Legislators Dinner in 2023.

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Secured a Dedicated Librarian

Our grade school now benefits from a dedicated librarian who supports reading, research, and student curiosity every day.

 

Restoring Pre-Kindergarten

Reestablishing a Pre-K program has remained a top priority for me. While our Superintendent has taken initial steps, I’ve been actively exploring creative paths forward. Superintendent Russo and I recently met with Dr. Robin Holmes-Sullivan, President of Lewis & Clark College, to discuss increasing community connection, potential partnerships involving their teaching students, Pre-K programming, and other ways to strengthen collaboration between the college and our district. These conversations represent exciting possibilities for early childhood education and long-term innovation. Restoring PreK is still a high priority outcome for me over the next four years.

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Bridged RGS and RHS Communities

We’ve made intentional efforts to connect the grade school and high school communities—academically, socially, and through shared experiences. The Gentrification Summit, Spirit Rally, and opportunities for grade school students to attend Senior Exhibitions have built meaningful connections between campuses. District-wide invitations to events like sporting games and a revitalized Arts Night have further strengthened community spirit and increased visibility and support across both schools. I believe these efforts are directly contributing to building stronger resident enrollment at our high school and a richer student experience.

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Reopened Schools to Community Use and Rentals

Rentals were paused during the pandemic. I worked with district leadership to reopen our buildings for nonprofit and community use—positively impacting revenue and fostering deeper community ties.

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Engaged Alumni as Advocates

I’ve worked to reconnect with Riverdale alumni through one-on-one meetings and recorded interviews during my first year on the board. These conversations offered meaningful insight into the long-lasting impact of a Riverdale education. Alumni are some of our strongest storytellers, and I believe there’s even more we can do to bring their voices into the present and future of our schools. Expanding and deepening this connection remains a priority. You can see some of these interviews here.​

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Commitment to Service in Support of Our Students

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My journey began with a simple invitation from the PTC President on my daughter’s first day of school—and I’ve stayed involved ever since. From hosting art shows to leading playgroups, I’ve built meaningful relationships across Dunthorpe and Portland.

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As a board member, I’ve continued that commitment—hosting artist open studios, interviewing alumni, attending countless school events, and giving to the Riverdale Foundation and PTC. Strengthening connections between families, students, and our schools has been one of the most rewarding parts of this work.

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Having an experienced leader who continues to evolve and grow matters—especially in a time when stability, compassion, and thoughtful decision-making are more important than ever. I strive to lead with empathy and care, while listening to all perspectives and considering the needs of every student, family, and staff member in our community. I am reenergized by the opportunity to serve our Riverdale/Dunthorpe community and build upon the last four years of success. I would be honored to have your vote this May.​