Patient, Positive, Persistent.
Patrick is a moderate, common-sense educator who has a deep understanding of teaching and educational policy – from the inside out.
With 19 years experience in the classroom as a public high school teacher and as a product of local public schools himself, Patrick is running to protect what has helped make our local schools some of the top-ranked schools in the state, while continuing to make them even stronger—by focusing on empowering our teachers, supporting safe and inclusive schools and ensuring that all our kids can reach their full potential and meet the new economy. As the only candidate with significant teaching experience, Patrick believes that in addition to parents, students and the broader community – input from those who’ve actually served in the classroom, is more important now than ever.
“I am so lucky to have been called to teaching. It is such a privilege to help students recognize who they want to be and help them get there. From those that go into journeyman programs as part of the “What’s Next” development unit I help to support, to acceptances at UC, Harvard and Stanford. These are amazing kids, we should celebrate them and support them!“
Protecting our public schools
Student / Academic Success
As a teacher, helping students excel and get ready for the world is my core focus. We live in a highly competitive world, and now, more than ever, students need to graduate ready to meet the new economy –whether that is college, vocational school or other career paths. I’ve fought successfully for increased AP offerings, supported and helped to develop CTE high-school to vocational career track options and fostered improving understanding of college offerings in my classrooms.
Community and Parent Engagement
During nearly 20 years of teaching, it has been a true privilege to get to know so many different families and to do my best to help their kids’ succeed. I believe that building stronger connections between schools, teachers, parents and the broader community is absolutely critical to both student and overall school success. It is one of the things that has made our school communities so strong.
Teacher Support and Development
As you all know, PUHSD and Del Oro have some of the greatest teachers in the region. Championing professional development, fair wages, and improved working conditions for these educators and public servants, will enhance student learning and keep our schools strong and competitive.
Safe and Inclusive Schools
The world can be a scary place and our students are increasingly bombarded with negativity and stress. Schools with strong, supportive and kind communities–like PUHSD and Del Oro, can help insulate them and should be safe havens. I want to protect that spirit and promote initiatives that ensure all students feel safe, respected, and valued in their learning environments.
Quality Education for All
One of our public schools’ unique strengths has been its focus on elevating academic success across the board – for all our students. I will continue to advocate for policies that help ensure access to resources and opportunities for every student, regardless of their background.