Welcome!
I am running for the Capistrano Unified School District School Board because I understand the value and benefits of public education. I can bring a voice for parents, students, volunteers, and community members who seek change but may find accessibility to communicate limited. I will represent those who are underserved and underrepresented. Capistrano Unified School District can only be better through diversity and inclusion, where collaboration with different experiences, background and mindset will heightened our students’ learning environment. I believe our strengths lie in our differences and our abilities to support one another.
As public servant for nearly 30 years and a library director for 14 years, I have experience in developing and managing fiscally-sound budgets, contracts, negotiations, public policies, capital improvement projects, and community partnerships. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a Master’s degree in Library Science. I am a board member of the California Library Association and the Boys & Girls Club in Orange County. I served on the Chamber of Commerce, the Homeless Intervention of Orange County, Rotary, and Roundtable Women’s Club.
Arriving in America from Vietnam as an 8 year-old child, knowing only two English words – hello and thank you, among thousands of other refugees seeking freedom, the experience was frightening for my parents and 8 sisters. Public schools provided my sisters and I an enriched learning experience. My parents raised their children in America and ensured we all graduated from college. Today, we are doctors, educators, counselors, engineers, accountants, and librarians thanks to public education.
My husband and I have made Mission Viejo our home for 14 years. We have three children – our oldest, recently earned his master’s degree. Our younger son is an incoming junior at Capistrano Valley High School, and our daughter is entering Newhart Middle School. We are proud CUSD parents, and actively volunteer in our children’s schools. We know firsthand there is room for improvement.
Please vote for me on November 8, 2022. www.jeanettecontreras4CUSD.com