Two first-time candidates are running for Natomas school board Area 4. Here’s where they stand
Voters in the Natomas Unified School District for the first time are choosing trustees from geographic districts instead of in an at-large election.
Two first-time candidates are running to represent the school district’s Area 4, which comprises neighborhoods north of Del Paso Road and east of Interstate 5.
They are Cindy Quiralte, an education advocate supported by teachers unions, and Monique Hokman, a mother of three who became active at school board meetings during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Monique Hokman
Party: Independent
Age: 40
Birthplace: San Diego
Residence: North Natomas
Occupation: Certified mold inspector
Education: Associate’s degree in cosmetology
Campaign Website: moniquehokman.com
1. In the district, there have been recent discussions regarding what are appropriate educational approaches and classroom environments. Given that, how should instructors navigate the fine line between teaching the realities of the world and not involving their personal beliefs?
Parents and students should have the basic assurance that instruction is being provided in a fair and objective manner. Teachers and instructors should be provided the supports to foster an environment that encourages discovery, critical thinking, meaningful cultural exchanges, and one that teaches children to respect differences in opinion. Constant communication with parents is vital towards maintaining accountability and building relationships that foster academic and athletic success.
2. Research has shown the COVID-19 pandemic led to education loss for students. How can the school district deal with that education loss to ensure students make up ground?
I believe the district should expand its in-house tutoring services and expand its credit recovery programs to assist students and families that have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. I believe the district should also partner with community-based organizations to provide supplemental educational service support in the form of after school programs and other mentorship programs that are in alignment with district goals.
3. About a decade ago, the district was on the verge of bankruptcy. Since then district finances have improved, how does the school board further increase its financial stability in this era of limited resources?
Although district finances have improved, there are still challenges that lie ahead, such as rising pension contribution rates, deferred maintenance costs, and other general liabilities. While the governor has invested historic amounts into K-12 education, the goal of Natomas Unified should be to continue to pass budgets with positive certifications and to look for savings opportunities, while applying for grant programs that fund vital services.
Cindy Quiralte
Party: Democrat
Age: 35
Birthplace: Merced
Residence: Natomas
Occupation: Family engagement coordinator
Education: Sacramento State, master’s degree in educational leadership and policy; UC Riverside, bachelor of science degree in political science; Fresno City College, associate’s degree in Chicano Latino Studies.
Campaign Website: https://www.facebook.com/CindyQuiralte4Natomas
1. In the district, there have been recent discussions regarding what are appropriate educational approaches and classroom environments. Given that, how should instructors navigate the fine line between teaching the realities of the world and not involving their personal beliefs?
The fundamental job of teaching is no longer to distribute facts but to help children develop their abilities and to think critically to create informed decisions and form their own opinions on a topic. Teachers grasp that their most important role is to get to know each student as an individual and to comprehend their unique learning style, social, cultural background, and interests and abilities.
2. Research has shown the COVID-19 pandemic led to education loss for students. How can the school district deal with that education loss to ensure students make up ground?
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on many students and their families. The district can prioritize social emotional wellness strategies, creating opportunities for enrichment, and tutoring to help meet students where they are and provide differentiated assistance to support student learning outcomes.
3. About a decade ago, the district was on the verge of bankruptcy. Since then, district finances have improved, how does the school board further increase its financial stability in this era of limited resources?
Responsible fiscal management will be essential to ensure the vitality of the district. The school board should continue to prioritize a balanced budget and assess of high impact programs that have measurable outcomes to support student learning.
