SW Washington Regional Director, Children’s Home Society of Washington

Within my work in family services and behavioral health, I have served youth and their families in our community for over 10 years. Throughout those years many families have expressed a need for an option like Rooted. Additionally, as a young child who experienced foster care and adoption, and then the mental health system in my teen years, school was always the place where I found hope for a different, better future. I see Rooted as a similar incredible opportunity, a school where students not only belong, but they thrive.

Chief Executive Officer, Extensis

“It is a moral imperative that those of us fortunate enough to have prospered give back to the community that has benefitted us; and this is yet another strategy to build a better community around diversity, equity and inclusion by focusing on training our local community members to be more able to participate in the robust tech economy present in SW Washington.”

Deputy Director, Crankstart

“My personal ‘why’ for Rooted Vancouver is being part of an organization with lofty goals - closing racial wealth gaps - and immediate and practical solutions for doing so. I love that Rooted meets students where they are and helps them stay ‘rooted’ to their communities while expanding their knowledge and reach to new careers.”

Community Development Manager, Fourth Plain Forward

I often wonder what it would have been like to attend a high school where I truly belonged, thrived, and felt empowered. At Rooted School Vancouver, I know our children will be provided with the tools to thrive, be uplifted and empowered to pursue their educational goals, while also expanding their knowledge and opportunities for new careers. It is important to cultivate the next generation of talented individuals in Vancouver, supporting them every step of the way, and closing the racial wealth gap. Promoting diversity, equity and inclusion, we will foster a stronger community and give our children a chance to participate in the tech industry. Rooted School Vancouver is committed to creating a better community, and a space where our children can grow succeed and excel.

Assistant Professor of Practice, Field Specialist; Portland State University

The mission and promise of Rooted School Vancouver align with my personal values and belief in economic uplift and empowerment through education. I have been an educator for more than a decade and it has been my privilege to be a teacher and mentor to students from communities where the cycle of poverty and school-to-prison pipeline are entrenched. I am invested in Rooted School Vancouver as a model for education that bridges the wealth and income gap for underrepresented students through learning that affirms and amplifies their gifts and talents and that cultivates success and excellence. I see Rooted School Vancouver as an incubator for the next generation of diverse STEM talent.

As a first-generation daughter of an immigrant mother, I've dedicated my life to social justice and educational equity. I believe in overcoming systemic barriers and creating safe spaces for black and brown students to thrive and break the glass ceiling. With 24 years in education, including roles as a teacher, coordinator, principal, and more, I'm committed to motivating, inspiring, and serving others to make a difference. My work in various professional associations and published research aligns with these goals. Let's stand together for change and inclusivity in education.