Building a Brighter
Tomorrow
About Mahesh Aitha
I come from a family that prioritized the value of higher education despite several financial hurdles. I graduated from a public school system in India and navigated my way, as an immigrant, to complete Masters and doctoral degrees in the US, to currently serving as a Research Scientist for a health care research institution. My global experience on the breadth and depth of diverse education systems has shaped my belief in the transformative power of education.
My Vision and Goals
01.
School Funding
Advocate for adequate funding to support essential resources such as classroom materials, technology, diverse extracurricular activities, and personnel. Work with local, state, and federal stakeholders to secure funding and allocate resources effectively.
02.
Equity in Education
Bridge the gap/disparities in resources, opportunities, and outcomes among students from different backgrounds and provide equitable opportunities to ALL students. Voice to foster a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.
03.
Holistic Curriculum
Work with curriculum team to ensure it is inclusive, culturally responsive, and prepares students for success in a diverse and rapidly changing world. Encourage schools to offer a variety of after-school clubs/programs, such as, STEM, Robotic, Language, Art, Music, Culinary, and provide the necessary infrastructure and support.
04.
Student Well-being and Mental Health
Address the mental health needs of students by implementing comprehensive support systems and resources within schools. This includes providing access to counselors, social workers, and mental health professionals, as well as promoting initiatives that foster a positive school climate and reduce stigma around mental health issues.
05.
Safe and Supportive School Environment
Ensure that schools are safe, welcoming, and inclusive environments where all students feel respected and supported. Implement policies and practices to prevent bullying, harassment, and discrimination.
06.
Technology Integration
Advocate for improving the technology infrastructure and resources to support digital learning initiatives and prepare students for success in the digital age. Ensure equitable access to technology devices and internet connectivity for all students, particularly those from underserved communities.
07.
Parent and Community Engagement
Work collaboratively with fellow board members, administrators, teachers, parents, stakeholders, and community members to regularly evaluate the effectiveness of policies and programs and ensure that taxpayer dollars are being used efficiently and effectively to benefit students.
08.
Organizational Support
Develop programs to recruit and retain highly qualified educators, supporting staff and administrators from diverse backgrounds. Support professional development opportunities for educators to enhance their teaching practices and meet the needs of all learners.
09.
Vision for the Future
Act as a liaison to expand opportunities for students, by focusing on college preparedness, 21 st century skills, and career readiness, through rigorous academic coursework, career and technical education programs, internships, and partnerships with local businesses.
10.
Data-Informed Decision Making
Use data effectively to monitor student progress, identify areas for improvement, and make informed decisions about policies, programs, and resource allocation. Regularly assess the impact of interventions and initiatives to ensure they are meeting the needs of students and achieving desired outcomes.
11.
Approachability
Be accessible and approachable to the community, opening multiple channels for hearing their concerns, answering their questions, and incorporating their feedback into your decision-making process.
12.
Accountability and Transparency
Uphold high standards of accountability, integrity, and transparency in all board-related activities and keep the community informed about board decisions and priorities. Approachability: Be accessible and approachable to the community, opening multiple channels for hearing their concerns, answering their questions, and incorporating their feedback into your decision-making process.
13.
Focused Special Education
Work to increase resources for special education and build the support system from all stakeholders to strengthen the program.