On November 5^th, 2024 we will have a chance to use the full weight of the electoral process to determine who will represent us on the West Contra Costa Unified School Board for the next four years.

In an effort to help level the playing field, Radio Free Richmond has extended an offer to all three candidates for the Board to post their own words to let you, the voters, know their positions on what they believe to be the important issues.

THIS IS FREE PUBLICITY.

The candidates have also been invited to post guest editorials on the issues of importance.

 RFR will post a new candidate statement every couple of days.

RADIO FREE RICHMOND DOES NOT ENDORSE CANDIDATES—THEY OFFER A PLATFORM FOR COMMUNITY MEMBERS TO EXPRESS IDEAS ON ISSUES OF VALUE TO THE COMMUNITY

BRIDGING WORLDS ~ A JOURNEY OF ADVOCACY AND MOTHERHOOD

Hi, I’m Guadalupe Enllana, I was born and raised in Richmond, California, am the daughter of hard working Mexican immigrants who came to this country with dreams and aspirations. Their sacrifices laid the foundation for my journey, shaping my values and instilling in me a profound respect for education and community.

Growing up in a vibrant yet challenging environment, I experienced firsthand the complexities that come with cultural identity and socio-economic barriers. My parents emphasized the importance of education as a means to break the cycle of poverty. They worked tirelessly to provide for our family, often juggling multiple jobs while instilling in me the belief that education is not just a privilege, but a fundamental right.

As a mother of five boys, my passion for educational justice has only deepened. Each of my sons has unique needs and strengths, which led me into the often-overwhelming world of special education. Navigating this system has been a challenge, but it has also fueled my determination to advocate for families like mine. Like many parents in our district, I have felt the frustrations of being unheard and underserved by the very system meant to support our children.I’ve witnessed how crucial it is for parents to be involved in every aspect of their children’s education, especially when it comes to shared decision-making at school boards and why I now feel compelled to step up and run for the school board.

I have taken a proactive stance on promoting educational equity, dedicated to ensuring that all children, regardless of their backgrounds, have access to the necessary resources and support. I believe in fostering a collaborative relationship between educators and families, where every perspective is acknowledged and respected. Through workshops, community meetings, and individual discussions, I am committed to empowering parents and encouraging their active involvement in their children's education.

I am a dedicated leader and advocate for change, proud to be an alumnus of the Emerge California program. With a strong background in educational equity, I have developed a passion for empowering underrepresented communities. Since completing the Emerge program, I have successfully served as the Vice Chair of the Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC), where I provided oversight on bond expenditures and facilities management. I have also co-led community projects with Healthy Contra Costa, formerly known as Healthy Richmond, and their Schools and Neighborhood Action Team (SNAT). I am committed to promoting social justice and fostering civic engagement.

Continue to serve as a member of the District Local Control Accountability Parents Students (DLCAPs) oversight committee to assess local educational needs and priorities. This involves gathering data and feedback to identify areas needing improvement, ensuring that funding and resources are allocated effectively to support established goals in alignment with the district's financial planning, educational objectives, and strategic plan.

 I am actively involved with neighborhood councils, including Coronado, Santa Fe, and the Iron Triangle. In my role as a community builder, I collaborate with residents to achieve meaningful results. I have supported various initiatives, such as neighborhood clean-ups and the renovation of MLK Park.

I’ve learned that advocacy is not just about fighting for policies; it’s about creating spaces for dialogue and understanding. It’s about sharing stories—our stories—so that others can see the rich tapestry of experiences that shape our children’s lives. I strive to be a bridge between my community and the educational system, ensuring that our voices resonate and our needs are met. I bring the lived experience of a parent who has navigated the educational system’s challenges, the advocacy experience of working directly with community organizations, and the leadership to help steer our district toward a brighter future. My work as Chair of Richmond’s Children and Youth Oversight Board has taught me the importance of community collaboration and ensuring that every decision we make centers on the well-being of our youth.

As I continue this journey, I hold onto the lessons of resilience and hope that my parents instilled in me. I want my sons to see the power of advocacy in action, to understand that they can be agents of change in their own lives and communities. My story is not just about my personal experiences; it’s about all of us—families, educators, and communities—coming together to create a future where every child can thrive.

In every challenge, I find purpose. In every triumph, I find motivation in every day, I strive to honor my roots while paving the way for the next generation. Together, we can create a world where education truly serves everyone. I believe our district deserves a leader who understands the struggles of our families and who will fight for accountability at every level. Our students deserve better, our teachers deserve better, and our entire community deserves better.