Principal for a Day at Aragon High School

This morning I was honored to be asked to be "Principal for a Day" at Aragon High School in San Mateo.

The annual program, sponsored by the San Mateo County Office of Education, gives local leaders the chance to walk in the shoes of a school principal to learn the challenges he or she faces in hopes of strengthening community ties. As one of over 50 local official taking part in various schools around the area, I toured Aragon High School with Principal Pat Kurtz. Along the way, I was honored to talk with students, teachers and administrators about what makes Aragon High School such a valuable part of our community. I was able to tour a computer lab, an AP biology class, hear the band practice, and watch some of San Mateo's finest teachers work with students from all walks of life.

I also was able to discuss ways in which the City of San Mateo can form better partnerships with our local schools. While the budgets for the City and our schools are separate, there were a number of areas where we found areas of mutual concern. They include:

• Traffic safety around schools for our children and neighbors

• Volunteer opportunities for students within our City

As a City Councilperson for San Mateo, I remain committed to working with our students, parents, and education leaders to address these and other areas of mutual concern.

Thanks again to the students and faculty at Aragon High School for an informative and inspiring morning!