Rehana Rehman
From Ballotpedia
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Rehana Rehman ran for election to the Elk Grove Unified Board of Education to represent Trustee Area 7 in California. She lost in the general election on November 5, 2024.
Rehman completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Rehana Rehman was born in Pasadena, California. She earned a high school diploma from Redlands High School, an associate degree from De Anza College in 2007, and a bachelor's degree from the University of California, Berkeley in 2011. Her career experience includes working as a businesswoman and a marketing and communications manager.[1]
Elections
2024
See also: Elk Grove Unified School District, California, elections (2024)
General election
General election for Elk Grove Unified School District Board of Education Trustee Area 7
Heidi Moore defeated Rehana Rehman and incumbent Carmine Forcina in the general election for Elk Grove Unified School District Board of Education Trustee Area 7 on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Heidi Moore (Nonpartisan) | 44.2 | 10,542 |
 | Rehana Rehman (Nonpartisan)  | 29.5 | 7,044 | |
 | Carmine Forcina (Nonpartisan) | 26.3 | 6,285 | |
| Total votes: 23,871 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
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Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Rehman in this election.
Campaign themes
2024
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Rehana Rehman completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Rehman's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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I’m Rehana Rehman, a first-generation South Asian Muslim American, a dedicated community member who cares deeply about education. Our students deserve only the best: the best facilities, the best teachers, the best professional staff, and the best school experience.
I'm a mom of four (with three kids currently in EGUSD schools), a community bridge builder, an active volunteer and parent leader at McGarvey Elementary and Pleasant Grove High, and a Rancho Cordova neighbor - and I'm passionate about making sure that every single student is set up to succeed, both in-school and beyond.
I'm running to represent our area on the Elk Grove Unified School Board because I have the critical on-the-ground experience to lead, and because I know that with transparency, open communication, and the power of collaboration, our district can do so much more.
It's an honor to be supported by the Elk Grove Education Association in this race, alongside Elk Grove Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen, Elk Grove School Board President Gina Jamerson, Vice President Michael Vargas, and longtime Elk Grove resident and former EGUSD School Board Trustee and Los Rios Community College Trustee, Katherine Albiani and so many others.- Academic success and school safety are my top priorities. I will focus on improving math and literacy proficiency across the district while ensuring that every school is a safe, supportive learning environment. This means investing in strong academic programs, mental health resources, and safety measures. Every student should feel secure, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential. I am committed to creating a school system that fosters both academic achievement and student well-being.
- Building New Schools to Address Overcrowding: Another one of my top priorities is addressing overcrowding by advocating for the construction of new schools, which will help alleviate stress on current facilities and improve student learning environments. I am committed to advocating for the construction of new schools, especially secondary and high schools, to relieve overcrowding. This is crucial for maintaining high educational standards and ensuring that every student has access to the resources, space, and support they need to succeed. Supporting initiatives like Measure N will help secure the funding necessary to build these new schools and facilities.
- My priority is to create schools where all students, families, and educators feel supported and valued.
Equitable Resources : Ensuring that students from underserved communities have access to the resources they need to thrive, including academic support programs, technology, and extracurricular opportunities. Safe and Inclusive School Environments: I will work to create safe, welcoming, and inclusive spaces where all students, regardless of background, feel they belong. This includes supporting policies that foster diversity and respect within schools.
Building Collaborative Relationships: To achieve these goals, I am committed to working closely with teachers, families, and community members by fostering collaboration and open dialogue.
I’m passionate about public policies that promote equity and opportunity for all students. I’m particularly focused on improving early literacy and math outcomes, reducing overcrowded classrooms by advocating for the construction of new schools, and ensuring equitable resource distribution. I care deeply about fostering safe, inclusive environments where every student feels they belong and policies that support mental health and social-emotional learning. At the heart of everything, my goal is to create policies that reflect the needs and voices of the entire community, ensuring that every child has access to the opportunities and succeed
I would recommend "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho. This story speaks to the importance of pursuing one's potential and staying resilient in the face of challenges, which resonates deeply with my own approach to leadership. In the book, the protagonist learns that the journey is just as important as the destination, and this mirrors my belief that we should focus not only on the goals we set for our schools but also on how we get there. Every student and community member should have the opportunity to explore their unique path, and I believe it's our responsibility to create an environment that nurtures that growth. Like the character in The Alchemist, I’m driven by the belief that with the right support, everyone can find success, no matter their starting point.
An elected official must embody integrity, empathy, and a commitment to serving the public. It’s crucial to remain grounded in the community’s values while keeping an open mind to new ideas and diverse perspectives. Strong communication, coalition building and transparency are also key, ensuring that constituents are always informed about decisions that impact them. As an elected leader, being accessible and a good listener is critical; the community needs to feel heard and understood. For me, empathy, empowerment, and equity are at the heart of this. By being compassionate and inclusive, officials can ensure policies and decisions benefit everyone. Integrity ensures that decisions are made with honesty and in the best interest of the community. Transparency fosters trust, as people need to understand not only what decisions are being made but why. Empathy is crucial because elected officials must actively listen to their constituents and understand their needs and concerns. An official should also be collaborative, as effective leadership often involves building consensus among diverse voices. Above all, an elected official must be committed to serving the community selflessly and should continually strive to bridge gaps and foster unity.
I believe that the qualities that will make me a successful officeholder are rooted in my empathy, resilience, and ability to bring people together. I’ve always been someone who listens with the intent to understand, not just respond. Whether it's through my experiences as a mother, volunteer, or advocate, I’ve learned that true leadership comes from genuinely hearing people’s stories and concerns and using that understanding to guide thoughtful, compassionate decisions.
I'm also incredibly driven and resilient. I don't shy away from challenges, and when obstacles arise, I look for solutions and opportunities to grow from them. My experience managing teams, building relationships, and advocating for causes that matter have shown me the power of collaboration and persistence.
A school board member has the responsibility to advocate for all students while ensuring decisions are made in the best interest of the entire district. This includes addressing pressing issues like overcrowded classrooms, ensuring resources are distributed equitably, and improving academic outcomes. It’s also about fiscal responsibility—making sure that funds are managed wisely and transparently. Another core responsibility is to foster collaboration between teachers, parents, and the broader community to ensure that schools operate in a way that reflects the needs of the students. Most importantly, it’s about accountability: the decisions I make will have a direct impact on the future of our children. A school board member’s core responsibilities are to ensure that all students receive a high-quality education, advocate for policies that promote equity and inclusion, and oversee the efficient use of district resources. It’s essential to set a clear vision for academic excellence, while supporting educators and staff so they have the tools they need to succeed. The board also has the responsibility to listen to the community—parents, students, teachers, and administrators alike—and ensure their concerns are reflected in district policies. A school board member must balance competing priorities, manage the district’s budget responsibly, and work to close opportunity gaps for underserved students.
The legacy I want to leave is one of empathy, empowerment, and community-building—values that have shaped who I am from an early age. Growing up, I was always encouraged to listen to others and connect with people through their stories, whether it was volunteering as a candy striper or simply engaging with those around me. I want to be remembered as someone who not only listened but acted, ensuring that everyone felt seen, heard, and valued.
I want my legacy to be that I helped create spaces where every child, no matter their background, had the support and opportunities they needed to thrive. I believe deeply in the power of education to uplift and transform lives, and I want to leave behind schools that are equitable, inclusive, and safe for all students.
My very first job was when I volunteered as a candy striper at the Veterans Hospital in Loma Linda when I was 14. I spent that summer over (500+ hours) taking meals to patients, wheeling them to appointments, and listening to their incredible stories of life and service, especially their experiences from World War II. I even learned to play poker with them, read poetry, and spent afternoons playing games outside. But what made this experience truly life-changing was how much I learned about the power of storytelling. These veterans opened up about their lives, and through their stories, I realized how connected we all are, no matter where we come from. We all have something valuable to share, and it’s our responsibility to care, listen, and be there for each other.
That summer is still one of the most magical experiences of my life. I’m so grateful my parents encouraged me to serve because I didn’t just gain work experience—I gained a deeper understanding of empathy and what it means to be part of a community. I got to know people who truly gave their lives for this country, and it’s an honor I carry with me to this day. That experience shaped who I am and drives my passion for serving others.
That summer is still one of the most magical experiences of my life. I’m so grateful my parents encouraged me to serve because I didn’t just gain work experience—I gained a deeper understanding of empathy and what it means to be part of a community. I got to know people who truly gave their lives for this country, and it’s an honor I carry with me to this day. That experience shaped who I am and drives my passion for serving others.
My favorite book is I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou. This book resonates deeply with me because it’s not just a story—it’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Angelou’s journey through hardship, trauma, and ultimately, self-discovery is a powerful reminder of how strength can be found in vulnerability. Her words are raw, honest, and filled with wisdom about overcoming adversity, finding your voice, and understanding your worth.
What I love most about this book is how it speaks to the importance of storytelling and sharing our experiences, no matter how painful they may be. It reminds me that there’s power in our personal stories and that our voices matter, even when the world tries to silence them. Angelou’s ability to turn her struggles into a source of empowerment is incredibly inspiring and has shaped the way I approach challenges in my own life. Every time I revisit this book, it leaves me feeling more grounded in the belief that no matter where we come from or what we’ve been through, we all have the ability to rise and create change. I read this book in 10th grade and still this is one of my all-time favorite books that I can pick up anytime and get lost in.
What I love most about this book is how it speaks to the importance of storytelling and sharing our experiences, no matter how painful they may be. It reminds me that there’s power in our personal stories and that our voices matter, even when the world tries to silence them. Angelou’s ability to turn her struggles into a source of empowerment is incredibly inspiring and has shaped the way I approach challenges in my own life. Every time I revisit this book, it leaves me feeling more grounded in the belief that no matter where we come from or what we’ve been through, we all have the ability to rise and create change. I read this book in 10th grade and still this is one of my all-time favorite books that I can pick up anytime and get lost in.
I strongly feel that the primary job of a school board member is to serve as a steward of the district, ensuring that policies and resources are aligned with the goal of providing an equitable and excellent education for all students. This involves setting the vision and goals for the district, adopting policies that reflect community values, and hiring and evaluating the superintendent. A school board member must also advocate for the needs of students, staff, and families, working collaboratively to address challenges such as funding gaps, academic performance disparities, and school safety concerns. In short, the role is about leadership, oversight, and advocacy, all while keeping the best interests of the students at the forefront.
My constituents include not only the students, parents, families, and teachers of the Elk Grove Unified School District but also the broader community—local businesses, taxpayers, community members and organizations that have a stake in the district’s success. Area 7 is unique because it includes the unincorporated areas of Sacramento, South Rancho Cordova, Rancho Murieta, Sloughhouse, and parts of Wilton. As a school board member, it's important to recognize that our schools are a reflection of the community as a whole. Every decision made has an impact beyond the classroom, affecting the economic and social fabric of the region. By listening to the diverse voices of the community, I would strive to represent their needs and ensure that the district remains a place where all students can thrive, and where families feel supported.
Supporting the diverse needs of students, faculty, staff, and the community requires a commitment to equity, inclusion, and individualized attention. For students, this means providing targeted resources for those who may be struggling, whether it's academic support, mental health services, or extracurricular opportunities. For faculty and staff, I would advocate for professional development that equips them to meet the needs of our increasingly diverse student body, while also ensuring fair compensation and a positive working environment. For the broader community, it’s important to maintain open lines of communication and to actively seek input from groups that may feel underrepresented. By fostering an environment where every voice is heard and valued, we can create a district that truly meets the needs of everyone.
I feel that it is paramount to build strong relationships with the broader community and that starts with accessibility and communication. I would actively engage with parents, teachers, students, and local organizations through town halls, community events, and regular outreach with open office hours. Specifically, I would target parent-teacher associations, local civic groups, and cultural organizations to ensure that I am hearing from a broad cross-section of the community. I believe in being proactive, not waiting for people to come to me but rather going to where they are, whether it’s through attending community meetings, school events, or holding office hours. By building trust and making myself available and accessible, I can ensure that the board’s decisions reflect the needs and values of the entire community.
Good teaching is about fostering critical thinking, engagement, and growth in students. It involves understanding the unique needs of each student and adapting instruction to ensure they thrive. Good teachers inspire a love of learning, make learning relevant to students' lives, and encourage them to think creatively and independently. I would measure good teaching through multiple lenses: student outcomes (both academic and social-emotional), peer and parent feedback, and the ability to adapt and innovate in the classroom. Supporting advanced teaching approaches means investing in professional development, providing resources for innovative teaching methods, and encouraging collaboration among educators. I would also advocate for classroom flexibility, allowing teachers to experiment with new instructional strategies, whether it's through project-based learning, technology integration, or interdisciplinary approaches.
I believe the curriculum should evolve to meet the demands of the 21st-century workforce and society. I’d like to see an expansion of opportunities in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) to better prepare students for careers in high-demand fields. Additionally, I support the growth of technical training and apprenticeships for students interested in pursuing trades or other non-traditional paths to success. Our schools should be offering dual-enrollment opportunities with local colleges, allowing students to gain college credits while in high school. Expanding arts and creative programs is also important to foster well-rounded individuals. Lastly, incorporating financial literacy and civic education ensures that students are prepared not only academically but as informed, engaged members of society.
Ensuring schools are properly funded requires both advocacy and innovation. I would push for state and local funding to be allocated equitably, ensuring that underserved schools get the resources they need. I would also support efforts to pass bond measures to raise funds for essential facility upgrades and new school construction to combat overcrowding. Additionally, I’d explore public-private partnerships that could help fund extracurricular programs, technology upgrades, and facility improvements. Ensuring transparency in the budget process is key to gaining community trust and support for these initiatives. By prioritizing funding for classrooms and student support services, we can ensure that resources are used where they will make the most impact.
Safety in schools should be proactive, not reactive. My policies would be driven by a commitment to creating supportive, inclusive environments where students and staff feel both physically and emotionally safe. This means addressing not just physical safety measures like security and infrastructure, but also fostering a culture of respect and belonging. I would advocate for enhanced mental health services in schools, as emotional well-being is a critical component of safety. Additionally, I believe in creating clear, anti-bullying policies and offering regular training for staff and students on how to create positive school climates. Safety also involves making sure that schools have emergency preparedness plans in place, and that these plans are regularly reviewed and updated.
Supporting mental health is essential for the well-being of students, faculty, and staff. I would advocate for increasing the number of mental health professionals in our schools, ensuring that students and staff have access to counseling and support services when needed. Incorporating social-emotional learning into the curriculum is another strategy that can help students develop resilience and emotional intelligence. Additionally, I believe in creating a culture of care in schools, where mental health is openly discussed, and no one feels ashamed to ask for help. For staff, mental health days and access to wellness programs can help prevent burnout and improve job satisfaction. Lastly, building strong partnerships with local mental health organizations can ensure that schools have the resources and expertise they need to support the well-being of everyone in the community.
One of the key policies I’d like to focus on is class size reduction. Overcrowded classrooms make it challenging for teachers to provide individualized attention, and students may struggle to engage meaningfully. I’d push for policies that prioritize smaller class sizes, particularly in areas where overcrowding is most severe. Additionally, I would advocate for policies that ensure equitable resource distribution, making sure that underserved schools have the same access to technology, support staff, and enrichment programs as other schools.
I would also prioritize strengthening early literacy and math programs to provide students with a strong foundation from the start. These programs are essential to leveling the playing field and ensuring every child has an equal opportunity to succeed.
Elk Grove Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen
EGUSD Board President Gina Jamerson
EGUSD Board Vice President Michael Vargas
Retired EGUSD Board Member Katherine Albiani
Sacramento County Supervisor Patrick Kennedy
Sacramento County Supervisor Rich Desmond
FCUSD Trustee Christopher Clark
TRUSD Trustee Basim Elkarra
SCUSD Board President Chinua Rhodes
SCUSD Board Vice President Jasjit Singh
NUSD Noel Mora
SMUD Director Heidi Sanborn
SMUD Director Gregg Fishman
Elk Grove Councilmember Sergio Robles
Sacramento City Councilmember Katie Valenzuela
Sacramento City Councilmember Mai Vang
Sacramento Republic Footballer & Elk Grove Resident Rodrigo Lopez
My ideal learning environment is one where students feel safe, supported, and engaged in their education. It’s crucial that every student, regardless of their background or learning needs, feels like they belong and that their potential is nurtured. This environment would prioritize social-emotional learning, fostering resilience and emotional intelligence alongside academics. Classrooms should be spaces where collaboration is encouraged, and students are given the tools to explore their interests and develop critical thinking skills. Furthermore, flexible learning opportunities—whether through technology, project-based learning, or hands-on experiences—should be available to meet the diverse needs of students. Lastly, an ideal learning environment would be one where teachers and staff have the resources they need to provide high-quality education, and where families are engaged as partners in the educational process.
Having moved to the district in 2021, I was able to observe the district’s efforts during a particularly challenging time. I felt the district did a commendable job overall in managing the pandemic, especially given the uncertainty and rapidly changing circumstances. Schools were able to adapt to remote learning, and efforts were made to ensure students and staff remained safe.
That said, there were areas for improvement, particularly around communication. Families and staff often faced confusion regarding the changing guidelines and expectations. In the future, I would prioritize clearer, more consistent communication, ensuring real-time updates are accessible to everyone. Additionally, while many students managed the transition to remote learning, equitable access to technology was an issue for some. Ensuring all students have the tools and resources necessary for learning, regardless of their circumstances, is crucial for future preparedness. Lastly, placing more focus on mental health support would have helped students and staff navigate the emotional toll of the pandemic. Moving forward, I believe prioritizing mental health and community-wide communication is key to successfully handling any future crises.
That said, there were areas for improvement, particularly around communication. Families and staff often faced confusion regarding the changing guidelines and expectations. In the future, I would prioritize clearer, more consistent communication, ensuring real-time updates are accessible to everyone. Additionally, while many students managed the transition to remote learning, equitable access to technology was an issue for some. Ensuring all students have the tools and resources necessary for learning, regardless of their circumstances, is crucial for future preparedness. Lastly, placing more focus on mental health support would have helped students and staff navigate the emotional toll of the pandemic. Moving forward, I believe prioritizing mental health and community-wide communication is key to successfully handling any future crises.
Building strong relationships with parents is key to creating a supportive and effective educational environment. I will prioritize maintaining open and transparent lines of communication through regular updates to my website, and quarterly newsletters, and leverage social platforms that keep parents informed about district decisions, upcoming events, and key initiatives. Additionally, I will hold monthly office hours where parents can share their concerns, ideas, and feedback in a relaxed setting. Being present at school events, community gatherings, and PTA/PFO/PTSO meetings at school sites will allow me to connect personally with parents, ensuring they feel heard and valued. I believe in fostering partnerships, not just dialogue, with parents. By actively involving parents in the decision-making process and addressing their concerns, we can work together to make meaningful changes for the benefit of all students. Most importantly, being accessible so parents feel like they can trust someone to be their advocate and provide clarity is paramount to this role.
I feel that recruiting and retaining high-quality faculty, staff, and administrators is essential for a thriving school district like EGUSD. To attract top talent, we need to offer competitive salaries that reflect the value of educators and support staff, ensuring we stay competitive with neighboring districts. Beyond compensation, I believe in creating a supportive work environment where staff feel respected, heard, and empowered to grow professionally. Offering opportunities for professional development, mentorship programs, and leadership training can help staff build their skills and feel invested in their career growth. In addition, creating a culture where input and expertise are valued can significantly improve retention. We must also ensure that the hiring process is transparent and equitable, encouraging a diverse pool of candidates that reflects the rich diversity of our community.
Financial transparency and accountability are cornerstones of good governance. For any public institution—especially schools, where budgets directly impact students and educators—it's critical that every dollar is used effectively and with clear purpose. As a trustee, I would ensure that financial decisions are communicated openly and that community members have access to information on how funds are being allocated and spent. It's important to have regular audits and reviews of the district’s budget to make sure money is going where it's needed most—toward improving student outcomes, supporting teachers, and maintaining facilities. Accountability goes hand-in-hand with transparency, and I would work to establish clear lines of responsibility to ensure that everyone involved in financial decisions is held accountable for their actions.
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See also
2024 Elections
External links
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Candidate Elk Grove Unified School District Board of Education Trustee Area 7 |
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Footnotes
- ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on October 8, 2024
