As we move through the next 90 days, we plan to provide our community with information about MCMS that will demonstrate what makes our middle school a necessary option for the Napa Valley public schools. One piece of the puzzle is our leadership team. We've asked the members of our proposed Board of Directors and our Council of Supporters seven questions to help you learn more about them, their background, and their philosophy.
We are proud and excited to introduce the first of this series, Seven Questions with Claudia Solorio.
If you had to describe yourself in five words or less to a complete stranger, what would those five words be?
Loving mother, advocate for justice.
Tell us something you remember about being in Middle School:
Middle school was very stressful as an immigrant student from Chile, with limited English skills. However, the school was small and had a strong music component, which allowed me to feel part of the school.
Why did you agree to join the Foundation Board:
I will join the Foundation Board because one, I believe in the model of education that prioritizes the socio/emotional development of children. Second, I believe our community needs options and diversity in educational choices. All of my three children benefited immensely from the River model, and I would like to support others students of all backgrounds to have that same opportunity. Middle school for my children was not just about academics, it was about fun, fieldtrips, and projects that inspired activities and community involvement.
What skills and perspective to you bring to the Board?
As a clinician I bring a wealth of information on the emotional development of children. I have 10 years of experience working in school settings, supervising group facilitators as well as providing direct mental health services on site. Additionally, I bring wealth of experience in working with diverse populations both in school and mental health settings.
What is the #1 thing we can do to improve public education today?
Find more eclectic approaches to teaching to encompass the different learning style of students. Learning is not a one size fits all model.
What do you think is the role of Charter Schools in Public Education?
I believe Charter schools have more flexibility in their ability to build a curriculum that is evidenced based. They can implement creative ways to support the different types of learning in a more comprehensive manner to encompass student of diverse back groups and learning styles.
What is something not many people know about you, which many might find surprising?
