I want to represent YOUR student.

 I have been a proud resident of Yorba Linda since 1997. As a parent, community advocate, and business owner since 1998, I am deeply committed in shaping and supporting the place we call home.

My husband, Jim, and I have been married for 30 years (this year!) and have been members of the Yorba Linda Country Club for over 25 years. Together, we founded Jim Buckley & Associates, Inc., an independent insurance adjusting firm in 1998. I manage the company’s budgets, contracts, benefits, payroll, accounting, and all aspects of human resources.

We raised our two children in the Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District — from Fairmont Elementary to Bernardo Yorba Middle School to Yorba Linda High School. Today, our daughter Emely is a kindergarten teacher, and our son Jimmy is an engineer.

As outlined on my Community Resume page, I am deeply committed to both our school district and our community.

WHY AM I RUNNING?

I am running for every student — every religion, every color, and every gender.
My goal is to ensure all students receive the best possible education to prepare them for their futures and help them become thoughtful, contributing members of society.

Let's Get Back to Being a Team.
We must come together in support of our students, teachers, and administrators. This is not "us vs. them." Somewhere along the way, the focus shifted — and we need to shift it back. If leadership is not meeting expectations, we should make appropriate changes, but tearing down our educators helps no one. Let us be their advocates and partners.

Fiscal Responsibility Matters.
We are facing potential budget cuts while operating at a deficit. It is time to reassess spending and contracts. Can we renegotiate contracts? Can we issue RFPs to find more cost-effective solutions while keeping class sizes manageable and protecting jobs? I am ready to roll up my sleeves and do the hard work required.

Politics Don't Belong on the Dais.
We need to get back to the business of education. With the current political climate, it is critical we focus on what is best for our district — not party agendas. Let’s refocus on students, not soundbites.

Hot Topics:

Critical Race Theory (CRT):
CRT is an academic theory taught at the university level. It is not part of the K–12 curriculum in PYLUSD. The topic is far too complex for younger students.

Transgender Athletes in Girls’ Sports:
This issue is governed by state law and CIF regulations — not school boards. Non-compliance could mean legal action or disqualification from CIF, affecting all athletes. The role of the school board is to follow the law and ensure all students can participate safely and fairly.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI):

• Diversity - means your student learning about different cultures — including their own.
• Equity - means your student having access to the same opportunities as other students.
• Inclusion - means ensuring that every student, including those with disabilities, is supported in the classroom.

Book Bans & Curriculum Content:
Our teachers and curriculum experts are trained professionals. A book’s presence in a library does not mean a student must read it. Parents always have options and the right to request alternatives. We need to trust educators while respecting families' input.

Standardized Testing:
Without testing, how can we measure progress? My experience growing up in a military family and moving place to place showed me the value of consistency and benchmarks. Testing helps us identify where students excel — and where they need more support.

AI in Education:
AI can be a powerful tool — like a modern encyclopedia — but its place in K–12 learning is still evolving. We must ensure students still develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The right leadership will help implement AI responsibly.

What Motivates Me?

YOUR STUDENT. OUR COMMUNITY.

I believe in making a positive difference — every day. Whether it is a random act of kindness or a simple compliment, I want people to know THEY MATTER. That is the kind of care and intention I will bring to the school board.