Hafa adai!
I have worked in education for nearly two decades. Working in education became an interest of mine when I was a student at the University of California at Santa Cruz. While studying for a bachelor’s degree in sociology, I participated in student-led organizations and mentoring roles that sparked my interest to work in education. Being the first in my family to go to college, the entire process of applying and completing a college education was overwhelming for my family and me. The support from teachers, school staff, counselors, and athletic coaches helped me through the process. I found myself serving in these same roles as a youth conference coordinator, college peer advisor, and college mentor with middle and high school students in college. My personal and academic experiences continue to drive my passion to serve students and their families in education.
Since then, I have continued to work in different roles in education to eventually go back to school to complete a master’s in counselor education at San Jose State University. During this time, I have had many beautiful memories with students, families, and school staff. One of the rewarding parts of being a school college and career counselor is learning about the different cultures of others. I felt like I had traveled the world by learning from colleagues, students, families, and community partners.
I currently work with the Oregon Department of Education with the Office of Education Innovation and Improvement with the Every Day Matters team. Working with different offices across the Oregon Department of Education, Education Service Districts, School Districts, and community partners to address the root causes of chronic absenteeism. Previously I worked with the Hawaii Statewide Family Engagement Center as the Project Lead and Training Coordinator. In this capacity, I contributed to developing professional development and coaching to build the capacity of families, educators, and community members to support student achievement. I continued my education by enrolling at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa College of Education doctoral program. In 2021, I completed the program and my research focus is on the social-emotional development of adolescents through story.
Elevating the voices that support student achievement and development is at the core part of my work. Having the opportunity to work with students, their family members, community, and schools identify ways to improve education systems is critical to the change-making process. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and dogs. Every now and then you can find me hiking, camping, attending family barbeques, singing (karaoke), watching my nieces and nephews, and craft-making.