By the Community, for the Community

I am the proud son of two immigrants from Mexico who came to the United States seeking a better future for their children. They settled in Salem, Oregon, where I was born and raised. Growing up in a working-class household, I attended Richmond Elementary, Leslie Middle School, and South Salem High School—all here in Zone 3. These schools shaped who I am, from learning English to preparing for college. They also sparked my passion for public service and my belief that education should be an opportunity for all.

As an AVID student, I gained the confidence and skills to pursue higher education, even when I wasn’t sure how I would afford it. Now, about to be the first in my family to earn a college degree, I recognize how invaluable those opportunities were.

Salem-Keizer’s public schools changed my life, and that’s why I have spent years giving back to them. As a high school student, I volunteered at my former elementary school, helping connect families with support services. After graduation, I returned to South Salem High as an AVID tutor, mentoring students in the same program that helped me succeed. Since then, I’ve continued to serve, knowing that the success of our schools is directly tied to the success of our community.

This isn’t about politics for me—it’s personal. I have been a student in these schools. I have been a tutor in these schools. I also became the educational guardian for my two siblings— at the same time as working multiple jobs, finishing high school, and starting college. I understand what our schools do well and where they need to do better. Advocating for my sisters, attending teacher conferences, and building relationships with staff showed me how powerful our schools can be when families and educators work together.

My focus is on ensuring every student—no matter their background—has the support and opportunities they need to succeed. I know firsthand how much education can change a life, and I will fight to make sure every student in our district has that same chance. Salem-Keizer schools have given me so much, and I am running for school board to ensure every student has the same opportunities to succeed that I did.