Li Zhang (Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District, At-large, California, candidate 2024)
Li Zhang ran for election to the Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District, At-large in California. She was on the ballot in the general election on November 5, 2024.[source]
Zhang completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.
[1]Biography
Li Zhang provided the following biographical information via Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey on October 8, 2024:
- Birth date: March 10, 1969
- High school: High School Attached to the Peking University
- Bachelor's: Peking University, 1991
- PhD: University of California at San Diego, 2001
- Graduate: University of Califiornia at Berkeley, 2008
- Gender: Female
- Religion: Agnostic
- Profession: Finance
- Incumbent officeholder: No
- Campaign slogan: Empowering Every Student, Inspiring Our Future!
- Campaign website
- Campaign endorsements
- Campaign Facebook
- Campaign Instagram
- Campaign X
- Campaign YouTube
- Campaign YouTube video
Elections
General election
General election for Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District, At-large (2 seats)
Vadim Katz, Alex Levich, and Li Zhang ran in the general election for Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District, At-large on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | ||
 | Vadim Katz (Nonpartisan) | |
 | Alex Levich (Nonpartisan)  | |
 | Li Zhang (Nonpartisan) | |
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| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
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Election results
Endorsements
To view Zhang's endorsements as published by their campaign, click here. Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Zhang in this election.
Campaign themes
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Li Zhang completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Zhang's responses.
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With a Ph.D. in Chemistry and a career in finance, I bring problem-solving skills and a focus on academic rigor. My role as a senior manager at Tesla, specializing in finance and tax, and vice chair of the LASD Bond Oversight Committee has equipped me with the financial expertise needed for responsible management of district resources.
As a mom and a community leader, I enjoyed being the Bookwave chair at Almond Elementary. I organized events where students authored and shared their own books, building their confidence and fostering a love for writing. In addition, I helped organize the Teatime Club at Mountain View High School to support first-generation immigrant families in navigating the school system, ensuring they feel welcomed and empowered. My involvement in the Family Partnership Council and attending board meetings has given me a solid understanding of district operations.
I’m committed to expanding academic opportunities, fostering life skills, and promoting nature-based learning, which I’ve seen benefit students through my years with Boy Scouts. I want to ensure our schools continue to be a place where every student can succeed—not just academically, but in life.- Expand Academic Opportunities and Life Skills Education: I want to broaden the academic programs available to students, ensuring they can explore diverse interests, from STEM to the arts, while also developing essential life skills. I plan to collaborate closely with teachers and community partners to create programs that prepare students for success beyond the classroom.
- Integrate Outdoor and Nature-Based Learning: I believe that reconnecting students with nature is vital for their mental health and overall well-being. Drawing from my experiences in scouting, I will advocate for outdoor learning experiences that promote a love for the environment and help students lead healthier, more balanced lives.
- Strengthen Family-School Partnerships and Ensure Fiscal Transparency: I am passionate about building strong connections between families and schools, as I’ve seen firsthand how vital these relationships are for student success. I will work to enhance communication and inclusivity while ensuring fiscal responsibility in budgeting and spending, so families understand how resources are allocated to support our students. By listening to our community and collaborating with stakeholders, I aim to create a supportive environment where every student can thrive.
Curriculum Standards: Establishing what students should learn at each grade level across subjects.
Assessment and Accountability: Governing standardized testing and evaluation methods for schools and teachers.
Teacher Certification and Professional Development: Setting requirements for teacher qualifications and ongoing training.
Special Education Services: Ensuring appropriate support for students with disabilities as mandated by laws like IDEA.
1. Integrity: Upholding honesty and ethical standards is essential. Elected officials must be transparent and accountable, consistently doing what is right for the community.
2. Commitment to Public Service: A genuine passion for serving the community and addressing its needs is crucial. Officials should prioritize the well-being of all citizens and work to improve their quality of life.
3. Ability to Listen and Engage: Strong listening skills are vital to understanding the concerns of diverse groups within the community. Engaging with residents and stakeholders helps build trust and foster collaboration.
4. Problem-Solving Skills: An elected official should have the ability to analyze issues, consider different perspectives, and craft solutions that benefit the community as a whole. With your extensive background in finance and leadership, these problem-solving skills are especially significant.
5. Inclusivity and Fairness: Ensuring equity and inclusion is paramount. Elected officials must advocate for policies that represent all groups, particularly marginalized or underrepresented communities.
6. Vision and Adaptability: Strong leaders can envision long-term improvements and adapt to changing circumstances. They must balance immediate needs with the bigger picture, always seeking opportunities to enhance the community’s future.
1. Educational Oversight: Ensuring that the school district provides high-quality education and meets academic standards. This includes reviewing curriculum, policies, and educational programs to promote student success.
2. Fiscal Responsibility: Managing the school district's budget and resources responsibly. This involves making informed decisions about funding allocations, maintaining transparency in financial matters, and ensuring efficient use of taxpayer dollars.
3. Advocacy for Students and Families: Representing the needs and interests of all students and families in the district. This includes advocating for equitable access to resources, support services, and educational opportunities, particularly for underrepresented groups.
4. Policy Development and Implementation: Developing and implementing policies that support the district's educational goals and address current challenges, such as mental health support, safety, and inclusion.
5. Community Engagement: Building strong partnerships with families, community organizations, and stakeholders. Engaging with the community fosters collaboration and ensures that diverse voices are heard in decision-making processes.
6. Continuous Improvement: Promoting ongoing evaluation and improvement of educational programs and practices. This includes staying informed about educational trends and best practices to enhance student learning and well-being.
7. Support for Staff and Teachers: Providing support and resources for teachers and staff to ensure a positive and effective working environment. This includes advocating for professional development and addressing any challenges they face.
This struggle has taught me valuable lessons in time management, prioritization, and the importance of self-care. I've had to learn how to set boundaries and delegate responsibilities, recognizing that I can't do everything alone. Finding this balance has been a journey, but it has also deepened my commitment to supporting other families in similar situations, especially those from diverse backgrounds.
1. Policy Development: School board members create and revise policies that guide the district's operations, ensuring they align with educational goals and the needs of the community.
2. Financial Oversight: They oversee the budget and financial planning for the district, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to support student learning and program development while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
3. Accountability: Board members hold the district's administration accountable for student performance and overall district operations. They assess the effectiveness of programs and initiatives, using data to make informed decisions that promote student success.
4.Community Engagement: A critical part of the role is to engage with the community—listening to parents, students, and staff to understand their needs and perspectives. This ensures that decisions reflect the values and priorities of the community.
5. Advocacy: School board members advocate for the needs and interests of the district at local, state, and federal levels. They work to secure funding and resources to enhance educational opportunities for all students.
6. Vision and Leadership: They establish a clear vision for the district’s future, setting goals that inspire and motivate both staff and students to strive for excellence.
1. Inclusive Curriculum: I would advocate for a curriculum that reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of our students, integrating multicultural perspectives and literature to help all students see themselves represented in their learning.
2. Mental Health Resources: Recognizing the importance of mental health, I would support initiatives to expand access to mental health services for students and staff, partnering with local organizations to provide tailored counseling and support programs.
3. Professional Development: I would promote ongoing professional development for faculty and staff focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion, equipping educators with culturally responsive teaching practices to better meet the needs of all students.
4. Community Engagement: Engaging with families and community members is crucial. I would encourage regular forums and outreach initiatives to gather input from diverse stakeholders, ensuring their voices are heard in decision-making processes.
5. Special Education Services: I would advocate for comprehensive support services for students with special needs, ensuring compliance with regulations while providing tailored resources to help them thrive.
6. Partnerships: Building partnerships with local organizations can enhance resources available to students and families, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. Collaboration with these entities is vital to address specific community needs.
1. Engagement: Actively involving students through diverse instructional strategies to foster participation.
2. Clarity: Clearly communicating learning objectives and expectations to promote mastery.
3. Adaptability: Flexibly adjusting lessons to meet the varied needs and learning styles of students.
4. Empathy: Building strong relationships with students to create a supportive environment.
5. Critical Thinking: Encouraging students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts.
6. Assessment for Learning: Utilizing ongoing formative and summative assessments to monitor progress.
Measuring Good Teaching
To measure effective teaching, I would implement:
- Student Feedback: Conduct regular surveys and focus groups to gather student insights on engagement and support.
- Peer Observations: Facilitate peer review processes for constructive feedback among teachers.
- Achievement Data: Analyze standardized test scores and performance metrics to assess teaching effectiveness.
Supporting Advanced Teaching Approaches
To support innovative teaching methods, I would:
- Professional Development: Provide ongoing training in advanced instructional strategies, including project-based learning and technology integration.
- Collaboration: Foster a culture of sharing successful practices and resources among teachers.
- Classroom Resources: Ensure access to materials and technology that enhance learning experiences.
- Mentorship Programs: Establish mentorship opportunities for teachers to learn from experienced educators.
1. Advanced Technical Training: Develop programs in coding, cybersecurity, and data analytics through partnerships with local tech companies to equip students with in-demand skills.
2. Apprenticeships and Vocational Education: Enhance apprenticeship opportunities in skilled trades and healthcare by collaborating with local businesses and community colleges.
3. Mental Health and Wellness Education: Integrate mental health education into the curriculum, focusing on stress management, mindfulness, and resilience-building.
4. Environmental Education and Nature-Based Learning: Promote environmental education through outdoor classrooms and partnerships with conservation organizations to foster a connection with nature.
5. Civic Engagement and Social Responsibility: Implement programs that encourage civic engagement and social responsibility, including service-learning projects and discussions on social justice.
6. STEM and STEAM Programs: Expand science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics programming through innovative projects and collaborations with universities.
1. Advocacy for Increased Funding: Actively engage with local, state, and federal officials to advocate for increased education funding and equitable resource distribution. This includes promoting policies that prioritize public education.
2. Community Partnerships: Foster partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations to secure funding and resources. Collaborative initiatives can enhance programs and provide additional support for students and schools.
3. Grants and Donations: Pursue grant opportunities and encourage donations from individuals and organizations. Establishing a foundation or fundraising committee can help identify and apply for grants specifically aimed at educational improvement.
4. Transparent Budgeting: Implement transparent budgeting processes that involve community input. Keeping stakeholders informed about financial decisions can foster trust and encourage community support for funding initiatives.
5. Utilizing Data-Driven Decision Making: Collect and analyze data to demonstrate the impact of funding on student outcomes. Presenting evidence-based results can strengthen the case for increased funding from various sources.
6. Engaging Families and the Community: Involve families and community members in discussions about funding needs and priorities. A strong, informed community can advocate effectively for increased support for local schools.
1. Holistic Well-Being: Prioritize the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of all students and staff. A safe environment supports positive learning experiences and promotes overall development.
2. Collaboration and Communication: Foster open communication between schools, families, and the community to ensure a shared understanding of safety concerns and protocols. Collaboration with local law enforcement, mental health professionals, and community organizations is essential.
3. Preventative Measures: Emphasize preventative strategies that address potential safety issues before they escalate. This includes implementing social-emotional learning programs, conflict resolution training, and mental health resources.
4. Inclusive Policies: Ensure that safety policies are inclusive and consider the diverse needs of all students, including those with special needs. Everyone should feel safe and supported in the school environment.
5. Emergency Preparedness: Develop and regularly update comprehensive emergency response plans that include drills and training for staff and students. Preparedness enhances the ability to respond effectively to various situations.
6. Data-Informed Decisions: Utilize data and evidence-based practices to inform safety policies and assess their effectiveness. Regular evaluations can lead to continuous improvement and adaptability to changing circumstances.
1. Increased Access to Mental Health Services: Advocate for the hiring of additional mental health professionals, such as counselors and psychologists, to ensure that students and staff have access to timely and effective support.
2. Mental Health Education: Integrate mental health education into the curriculum for students and professional development for faculty and staff. This will help reduce stigma and increase awareness of mental health issues and available resources.
3. Wellness Programs: Promote wellness programs that focus on stress management, mindfulness, and self-care for both students and staff. Activities like yoga, meditation, and workshops can be beneficial.
4. Supportive Policies: Develop and implement policies that promote work-life balance for faculty and staff, including flexible scheduling, mental health days, and opportunities for professional growth.
5. Peer Support Programs: Establish peer support initiatives where students and staff can connect and provide mutual support. Training peer mentors can create a supportive community.
6. Collaboration with Community Resources: Partner with local mental health organizations to provide additional resources and support for students and staff, including workshops, counseling services, and referral programs.
7. Regular Check-Ins: Encourage regular check-ins and open communication between teachers, students, and administration to identify and address mental health concerns early on.
Existing Policies to Change:
1. Mental Health Support: Advocate for a comprehensive mental health policy to expand access to resources, including more counselors and programs.
2. Special Education Services: Push for consistent and effective implementation of individualized education plans (IEPs) to support students with special needs.
3. Curriculum Flexibility: Revise policies to allow for interdisciplinary and project-based learning, giving teachers flexibility to tailor lessons.
New Policies to Implement:
1. Equity and Inclusion Initiatives: Promote diversity and ensure equal access to opportunities for all students, regardless of background.
2. Community Engagement Programs: Establish policies encouraging parental and community involvement in school decision-making.
3. Nature-Based Learning: Integrate outdoor and nature-based learning into the curriculum to benefit students’ mental health and well-being.
4. Technology and Digital Learning: Enhance digital literacy and access to technology for all students, preparing them for the future workforce.
LASD Citizens Bond Oversight Committee - Brandon Kam
LASD Assistant Superintendent Business Services - Erik Walukiewicz
LASD Member Elect - Stella Kam
Los Altos Healthcare Executive, Retired - George Shea
MVLA High School District Board Trustee - Phil Faillace
MVLA and MVWSD, Retired Trustee - Fiona Walter
MVLA High School District Family Partnership Council - Peter Cheng
Former LAMV PTA council, President - Heather Myers
Mountain View Mayor - Pat Showalter
Mountain View City Councilmember - Alison Hicks
Mountain View City Councilmember - Margaret Abe-Koga
1. Safe and Supportive Atmosphere: A welcoming space where students feel emotionally and physically safe, fostering self-expression and confidence.
2. Flexible Learning Spaces: Classrooms designed for adaptability, featuring flexible seating and technology that accommodate diverse learning styles.
3. Nature Integration: Access to outdoor areas and nature-based learning opportunities that enhance environmental awareness and promote mental well-being.
4. Collaborative Learning: Opportunities for students to work together on projects and engage in discussions, encouraging critical thinking and communication skills.
5. Personalized Learning: Tailored instruction that recognizes individual student needs, strengths, and interests, allowing for progress at their own pace.
6. Culturally Responsive Curriculum: A curriculum that reflects diverse backgrounds, promoting understanding and respect for different cultures.
7. Access to Resources: Availability of a wide range of educational resources, including technology and extracurricular programs, supported by community partnerships.
8. Mentorship and Guidance: A strong support system with mentors and counselors to guide students academically and emotionally.
Strengths:
1. Rapid Transition to Remote Learning: The district quickly adapted to remote learning, providing students with necessary resources and technology to maintain educational continuity.
2. Effective Communication: Regular updates kept families informed about safety protocols and changes, fostering trust within the community.
3. Support for Vulnerable Populations: Efforts were made to support students with special needs and those facing economic hardships.
Areas for Improvement:
1. Mental Health Support: Increased emphasis on mental health resources for students and staff is crucial, as the pandemic significantly impacted well-being.
2. Flexible Learning Options: Future strategies should include more flexible learning formats, allowing families to choose the best option for their children, whether in-person, hybrid, or online.
3. Feedback Mechanisms: Establishing regular channels for feedback from students, parents, and staff would help the district assess and adjust its responses more effectively.
4. Enhanced Educator Training: Providing additional training for teachers on managing remote learning and addressing diverse student needs is essential for better preparedness.
1. Regular Communication: I would prioritize open communication through newsletters, social media, and community forums to keep parents informed about district news, policies, and events.
2. Parent Engagement Events: Organizing workshops, informational sessions, and town hall meetings would provide parents opportunities to voice their concerns and share ideas, fostering a sense of community and encouraging active participation.
3. Inclusive Representation: I would work to ensure that diverse parent groups are included in decision-making processes, recognizing the unique perspectives and needs of different communities within the district.
4. Feedback Mechanisms: Implementing surveys, focus groups, and suggestion boxes would empower parents to provide feedback on programs and initiatives, contributing to continuous improvement.
5. Support Networks: Facilitating parent support networks and clubs would encourage parents to connect with one another and share resources, fostering a sense of belonging within the community.
6. Collaboration with Parent Organizations: Actively engaging with existing parent organizations, such as PTAs, would strengthen connections and amplify parent voices, allowing for collaboration on initiatives that benefit students and families.
7. Celebrating Achievements: Recognizing and celebrating student and school achievements would provide opportunities for parents to engage positively with the school community.
1. Targeted Campaigns: Develop campaigns that showcase the district’s commitment to diversity, reaching underrepresented groups to ensure a broad candidate pool.
2. University Partnerships: Collaborate with local universities, especially those with strong education programs, to identify talent. Hosting job fairs and information sessions will raise awareness of our district.
3. Competitive Compensation: Offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits packages, with regular salary reviews to remain attractive compared to surrounding districts.
4. Onboarding and Mentorship: Implement robust onboarding and mentorship programs to support new hires’ integration and foster long-term commitment.
5. Professional Development: Provide ongoing professional development opportunities to attract motivated candidates, highlighting these in recruitment materials.
6. Community Engagement: Encourage staff involvement in community service initiatives to attract candidates who value making a positive impact beyond the classroom.
7. Transparent Processes: Ensure hiring processes are transparent and equitable, building trust and attracting candidates who appreciate a fair approach.
1. Financial Transparency: School districts must maintain clear and open financial practices, making budget documents, spending reports, and funding allocations readily available and understandable for the public. Transparency helps the community see how taxpayer dollars are utilized and ensures resources are allocated effectively to meet student and school needs.
2. Community Engagement: Engaging the community in financial discussions is vital. Encouraging input from parents, educators, and local stakeholders fosters collaboration and ensures diverse perspectives are considered in financial decision-making.
3. Accountability: Elected officials must be accountable for their financial decisions and the district's overall performance. Setting clear goals and performance metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of programs helps the community understand how well the district is meeting its objectives.
4. Oversight Mechanisms: Implementing robust oversight, such as independent audits and advisory committees, ensures rigorous reviews of financial practices. This helps identify areas for improvement and reinforces a culture of accountability within the district.
5. Ethical Leadership: Upholding ethical standards in financial management is essential. Elected officials should lead by example, demonstrating integrity and a commitment to making decisions in the best interest of students and the community.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
See also
2024 Elections
External links
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Candidate Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District, At-large |
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Footnotes
