VALERIE AMEZCUA

 Valerie will bring the care of a parent and the passion of public service to make a difference on the school board.  A native of Santa Ana, California, Valerie's daughter graduated from Santa Ana High School and is now attending UCLA; her son is currently a student-athlete at Santa Ana High School.  Valerie's interest in improving public education is important, not only because she is a mother, but because she believes that every child in Santa Ana deserves an education of the highest quality.

Valerie has over 20 years of experience in community service, and she continues to work hard to address the issues of at-risk youth, including intervention and prevention programs.  Since 1986, Valerie has worked for the Orange County Probation Department.  She is currently serving as a Supervising Probation Officer at the Central Youth and Family Resource Center in the City of Santa Ana.

 In addition to her extensive public service experience, Valerie serves as the Chairperson for the Human Relations Commission for the City of Santa Ana.  She is also a member of Santa Ana's Early Prevention and Intervention Commission (EPIC) representing the Orange County Probation Department.

In recent years, Valerie has provided support and guidance for after-school summer programs at Pio Pico and Lowell Elementary Schools.  Valerie was recently honored by being elected to the Board of Directors for the National Hispanic Business Women's Association.

 As a community leader, Valerie understands that our future in Santa Ana depends upon our diligent efforts to deliver a quality education for all children.