According to the California School Board Association (CSBA), “citizen oversight of local government is the cornerstone of democracy in the United States.” Additionally, “school boards provide direction and oversight for the professionals who manage the day-to-day operations of the schools. They also provide accountability to the community.” Most importantly, the role of the Trustee is to be “responsive to the values, beliefs and priorities of its community.” The CSBA set forth five major governing responsibilities of a School Board. Read all of the roles and responsibilities here.
ONE – Setting the direction for public schools in the community
“Of all the responsibilities of governing boards, none is more central to the purpose of local governance than ensuring that a long-term vision is established for the school system. The vision reflects the consensus of the entire board, the superintendent and district staff, and the community as to what the students need in order to achieve their highest potential. The vision should set a clear direction for the school district/COE, driving every aspect of the district’s/COE’s program” (CSBA).
As a lifelong Simi Valley resident, Mike has a clear direction for our public schools.
- I graduated from Simi Valley schools.
- I am a parent of two Simi students: one a recently graduated senior, the other a rising junior.
- I have a unique understanding of what school was, what it currently is, and a vision for what it could be.
- I am an involved parent who volunteers my time, money, and expertise to support what already makes Simi schools so great.
- I work closely with teachers, administration, and board members to help build a better future for our students.
- As a parent, I understand that choice in each student’s educational journey is crucial for their transition into adulthood.
- Working with the community, I’ll research every issue deeply to understand and execute the best course of action for Simi and its schools.
TWO – Establishing an Effective and Efficient Structure
“The board is responsible for establishing and maintaining an organizational structure that supports the district’s/ COE’s vision and empowers the professional staff” (CSBA).
Mike’s diverse experience in project and people leadership enables him to bring best practices from several industries to our schools.
- 30+ year career in local Simi business, start-up, medical, automotive, and aerospace industries.
- 15+ years of experience in non-profit leadership and board governance.
- I effectively lead teams, interpret and execute complicated government contracts, and foster lean business practices. I know how to simplify, communicate effectively, and balance accountability with efficiency.
- I’ll listen to understand Simi parents, teachers, and students. I will honor what Simi residents want from our school system.
- Everyday I work diligently to be a voice of advocacy. I constantly seek solutions for complex problems in business and in our community.
THREE – Providing Support for the Community
“Through its behavior and actions, the board has a responsibility to support the superintendent and staff as they implement the established vision” (CSBA).
Mike has given back to our community since Elementary School.
- Organized my first public school fundraiser in 3rd grade.
- Served as Simi Valley Education Foundation (SVEF) Board Member since 2011, raising money to enhance education for all Simi schools.
- First SVEF President to serve three terms.
- Chaired every SVEF fundraising and program committee.
- Member of Santa Susana High School Parent Advisory Committee in 2023.
- Currently serving my second term as President of the Santa Susana High School Performing Arts Boosters (SSPAB).
- Supported teachers by being an overnight chaperone for Simi school outings.
- SVAA Board member 2018-2020.
- Provided governance on the LCAP committee in 2020.
- Served as a mentor for 8th grade portfolios and senior projects since 2017.
- Active mentor for students in the Ronald Reagan Foundation SLP Program.
- Supported local Rotary initiatives including The Cajun Festival, Youth Empowerment Summit, and UBUNTU.
- Facilitated Spanish translation of outreach brochure for FTN Foundation—free of charge.
FOUR – Ensuring Accountability to the Public
“The board represents the community and is accountable to the public for the performance of the schools in the community” (CSBA).
Accountability and transparency create the cornerstone of Mike’s history of service to Simi Valley.
- I believe in fiscal responsibility and social transparency.
- 20 years of experience managing, operating, and programming budgets to ensure accountability and prevent overspending in the private sector.
- Restructured SVEF financial reporting system to provide visibility for fundraising event costs versus actual net proceeds.
- Created national campaign to demonstrate proper use of federal funding from the Office of Community Service.
- Participated in grant selection to ensure that SVUSD teachers have access to additional resources for their students.
- Worked with SVEF donors to align grant reporting to their initiatives for publishable Corporate Social Responsibility outcomes.
FIVE – Demonstrating Community Leadership
“As the only locally elected officials chosen solely to represent the interests of students, board members have a responsibility to speak out on behalf of children. Board members are advocates for students, the district’s/COE’s educational programs and public education” (CSBA).
Mike has been involved in Simi Valley community leadership for more than 40 years.
- I wholeheartedly believe in nurturing individual passion and providing a learning path for every student—no matter their background or zip code.
- I was the class president at Sycamore Elementary, Sequoia Junior High, and Simi Valley High School.
- I have been in leadership positions at every company I’ve worked at since 2003.
- I am a respected community member with a proven track record of good governance and public involvement.
- I will advocate for each and every student.
- I decided to run for office to help make our schools a safer, more equitable, and more collaborative place to learn.