Amazing African Ancestry Women of MUSD, Portrait #5: Gina Sainten, Asst. Principal at Sinnott2/15/2024
![]() Name: Gina Sainten Occupation: Elementary Assistant Principal at Sinnott Years with MUSD:12 years How/Why is Black History Month important to celebrate throughout our district? Black History month is important to celebrate throughout the district to bring awareness of all the greatness that our African American community has accomplished and is still doing. It is a month that gives special time to highlight and dig deeper in learning more about all that has been accomplished. It is also a time for our community to spend more time seeing themselves in the curriculum and content that is shared in the classrooms and school community. Spending time highlighting stories of African American leaders, and people who have worked hard to make change. Who is a famous female leader of African Ancestry that inspires you and why? A Famous Female Leader of African Ancestry who inspires me if Michelle Obama. Her focus on making sure we address issue for children and the food they eat was inspiring and how she has partnered and created a TV show “Waffle and Mochi” to teach children about where food comes from to help them explore and try new things has been something I have seen first-hand with my own children looking up to her and learning from her. Mrs. Obama has also been an inspiration to me through the speeches she has made and the books she has written. I know she still has so much to offer to the world and I cannot wait to see what else she does. What are some of your keys to success for younger black females? Speak up, do not give up your last word, bring your own perspective and don’t be afraid to push for change, Stay true to who you are and advocate for yourself, Encourage each other and empower each other. ![]() Name: Dr. Hanna Asrat Occupation: Principal Years with MUSD: 7 years How/Why is Black History Month important to celebrate throughout our district? Black History Month provides an opening - a place to start working on ensuring our history tells the whole story. It gives us an opportunity to tell stories we don't often tell in public schools, to reflect on the leaders/inventors/artists/activists we know, and the ones we don't. What it is not is a finish line. It should never be the only time we talk about Black leaders or an excuse to only study Black people and Black stories in February. Who is a famous female leader of African Ancestry that inspires you and why? Oh there are so many! Michelle Obama is an obvious but amazing choice. I think I'll go with Dr. Beverly Daniel Tatum. Hearing her speak for the first time was so inspiring. It was amazing to see a woman who looks like me speaking at a great university about the educational and equity topics I'm passionate about. I think it might have been one of the first times I considered working towards my own doctorate! What are some of your keys to success for younger black women? You don't owe anyone anything. You have value and worth just as you are and your ideas and thoughts are worth sharing. Your impostor syndrome is lying to you. You don't have to be exceptional to be awesome. Find your people and lean on them hard. Amazing African Ancestry Women of MUSD, Portrait #3: Cyd Mathias, 2nd/3rd Grades Teacher at Weller2/13/2024
![]() Name: Cyd Mathias Occupation: 2nd/3rd Grades Teacher at Weller Elementary Years with MUSD: 25 How/Why is Black History Month important to celebrate throughout our district? Since racism and racial prejudice have been engrained in societies worldwide, children must learn that many black people have made valuable contributions in the fields of science, medicine, technology, aviation, architecture, agriculture, education, politics, exploration, athletics, literature, theatre arts, fine art, music, and etcetera. Who is a famous female leader of African Ancestry that inspires you and why? I was always impressed with educator Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, for all her accomplishments and tireless commitment to educating and advocating for black people. Born on July 10, 1875, Mary McLeod Bethune was the first in her family to be born outside of the slavery institution, and in 1904, she started the Daytona Literary and Industrial Institute for Negro Girls, which grew to 250 students in less than two years. After merging with the Cookman Institute of Jacksonville, Florida in 1923, the school was renamed Bethune-Cookman College, and is now called Bethune-Cookman University. Bethune also founded the Mary McLeod Hospital and Training School for Nurses, which was the only school of its kind that served African American women on the East Coast. "Dr. Bethune held leadership positions in several prominent organizations while leading her school. In 1935, she founded the National Council of Negro Women, which would become a highly influential organization with a clear civil rights agenda. She was appointed by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt to the National Youth Administration in 1936. By 1939 she was the organization’s Director of Negro Affairs, which oversaw the training of tens of thousands of black youth. She was the only female member of President Roosevelt’s influential “Black Cabinet.” She leveraged her close friendship with First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt to lobby for integrating the Civilian Pilot Training Program and to bring the Program to the campuses of historically Black colleges and universities, which led to graduating some of the first black pilots in the country." (Source: https://www.cookman.edu/history/our-founder.html) What are some of your keys to success for younger black females? Go the extra mile to make sure your work product is impactful; create a pleasant classroom; learn from your own mistakes and successes and learn from others. Keep refining and expanding your methods and skills. Engage in face-to-face dialogue whenever possible, and treat everyone with respect. Be careful with your words. Amazing African Ancestry Women of MUSD, Portrait #2: Dr. Latisha Roberts, Middle School Counselor2/12/2024
![]() Name: Dr. Latisha Roberts Occupation: Middle School Counselor at Thomas Russell MS Years with MUSD: 17 years How/Why is Black History Month important to celebrate throughout our district? Black History is very much a part of US History. It's important to celebrate it not only throughout the district, but also throughout the world. It's an opportunity to learn about African-American culture and leaders that made significant contributions to the world we live in today. Who is a famous female leader of African Ancestry that inspires you and why? Sojourner Truth is a famous female leader of African Ancestry that inspires me. I admire her bravery and courage to be an outspoken advocate for abolition and civil rights in an era filled with many racial inequalities. What are some of your keys to success for younger black females? Keys to success for younger African-American females would be to find role models and/or mentors that can help guide and give you support as well as share their wisdom with you. Amazing African Ancestry Women of MUSD, Portrait #1: Angela Holmes, MAE Transition Specialist2/8/2024
![]() Name: Angela Holmes Occupation: Transition Specialist for Milpitas Adult Education Years with MUSD: 3 years How/Why is Black History Month important to celebrate throughout our district? Celebrating Black History Month educates people about the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of the black community throughout history. It helps dispel stereotypes and promotes a more inclusive and accurate understanding of history. Who is a famous female leader of African Ancestry that inspires you and why? Issa Rae is a highly accomplished actress, writer, producer, and entrepreneur known for her work in the entertainment industry. While she may not be classified as a political or traditional leader, Issa Rae is inspiring for several reasons: Creative Prowess: Issa Rae is a creative force in the entertainment world. She created the critically acclaimed web series "The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl," which gained widespread attention for its unique perspective on the experiences of black women. Her creativity and storytelling have resonated with a broad audience. Issa Rae has broken barriers as a black woman in Hollywood. Her success in creating and starring in the HBO series "Insecure" has challenged conventional norms and stereotypes in the industry, paving the way for more diverse representation both in front of and behind the camera.Issa Rae serves as a positive role model for aspiring creatives, particularly African American women. From her journey from creating web series to becoming a celebrated figure in Hollywood demonstrates the power of perseverance, talent, and a commitment to telling authentic stories. While Issa Rae may not be a political leader/figure, her influence in the entertainment industry and her commitment to diversity and inclusion make her an inspiration for many individuals. What are some of your keys to success for younger black females? Prioritize education as a means to empower yourself and broaden your opportunities. Seek knowledge, develop critical thinking skills, and embrace lifelong learning. Self-Confidence, believe in your abilities and self worth. MUSD Alumni Profile Series, Special Black History Month Edition: Donnie Eiland and David Mosqueda2/1/2024
![]() Two Milpitas High School alumni and good friends Donnie Eiland and David Mosqueda joined forces to produce the now iconic documentary, ‘54: The Story Of Sunnyhills, the First Planned Integrated Community in the Nation.” (Click to watch the special producer’s cut) To kick off Black History Month, these two talented producers shared a little bit about their upbringing and special moments that define who they are today. Let’s hear what they had to say: Donnie Eiland, 61, a 1980 Milpitas HS graduate who attended Pomeroy Elementary and Russell Middle School, is now retired after working at Apple Inc. for 33 years, the last 20 as a Logistics Lead in Apple’s Maps Division and an IT Asset Analyst in Apple’s Marketing Division. “MUSD schools helped instill in me the confidence to dream big and to always know that I matter,” Eiland shared. “Also, growing up in a culturally diverse neighborhood/city helped prepare me to be comfortable in any work setting that I found myself in.” His fourth grade teacher, Mrs. Beck, was an early inspiration because “she constantly told me that I was a natural born leader and to always shoot for the stars in whatever I pursue in life.” Later in his senior year, American Government teacher Tom Babagian “saw that I took a vested interest in the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and told me to always hold onto his teachings and apply them to my own life.” But Eiland’s fondest memories came from playing on MHS sports teams, where he competed against “some of the greatest athletes to come out of Milpitas and formed life long friendships as a result.” “Some of my greatest life lessons have been through principles that I learned from my Milpitas coaches,” he added. As for some words of wisdom for the younger MUSD generations, Eiland said: “Enjoy and embrace the rich, culturally diverse and tight-knit community that Milpitas has to offer. There’s no place like it.” David Mosqueda, 62, a Milpitas native who attended MHS from 1976-1980 and grew up in Sunnyhills (where he remains today), is retired as well, after spending 18 years at NUMMI (New United Motors Manufacturing Inc.). He is presently known as a healer in the music and mixed martial arts world. “I take away pain before the musicians go on stage,” he shared. Mosqueda cherished his unique and diverse upbringing in Milpitas, where he made friends from all different backgrounds. “Milpitas taught us not to judge a person by their color, religion, or creed,” he said. He married his high school sweetheart (Vicki Watts); the two have been together since 1977. Before excelling in Machine Technology at San Jose City College, Mosqueda was inspired by MHS auto shop teacher, Mr. Williams, who “inspired me to learn how to work on cars from body work to engine work.” For the future generations of MUSD students, Mosqueda’s advice is to remain focused on their goals through high school and college so they set themselves up for a successful future. “You can enjoy the good life after you have graduated,” he said. “May all your dreams come true.” ![]() January is School Board Recognition Month, where we salute our MUSD Board of Education Trustees who aid in supporting student success by establishing our mission, vision, policy priorities, budget and benchmarks. This year we are highlighting each of our trustees. Name: Minh Ngo Current School Board Title: Board President Years on School Board: 4 and counting Past School Board Titles w/years: 2023 Board Vice President, 2022 Board Clerk, 2019-2021 Trustee Professional Occupation: Director of Agency Standards of the San Francisco Office in the nation’s largest mutual life insurance company. How long have you lived in Milpitas? 10 years Did you attend MUSD schools? No Do you have any children who currently attend or attended MUSD schools? All 3 of my children currently attend Alexander Rose Elementary as a 5th, 2nd, and Kinder. What motivated you to want to join the MUSD Board of Education? I grew up in a public education environment. My father is a retired night custodian from a public elementary school and often setup and cleaned up Board meetings. I remember him telling me how important decisions were being made in those meetings. When it came to my children’s educational journey, I wanted to invest my time in building a learning community that provides successful pathways for their generation. What do you feel is the most important part of being on the school board? The collective goal is to enhance the educational opportunities for our learners. The path to a collective goal takes time through engagement with students, teachers, staff members, parents, administrators, and the community. What are you most proud of during your term on the school board? Seeing the development of the Randall World Languages School. However, there is still more to come as the work isn’t finished yet. What is your favorite pastime? Being a father and spending time with my children. Tell us something about yourself that we may not know: I competed in several Northern California Dragon Boat races. Won a bronze medal once. ![]() January is School Board Recognition Month, where we salute our MUSD Board of Education Trustees who aid in supporting student success by establishing our mission, vision, policy priorities, budget and benchmarks. This year we are highlighting each of our trustees. Name: Robert Jung Current School Board Title: Trustee Years on School Board: 3 Past School Board Titles w/years: Trustee, 2016-2018 Professional Occupation: Retired, previously engineer, manager, private investor, social entrepreneur How long have you lived in Milpitas? 20+ yrs Did you attend MUSD schools? No Do you have any children who currently attend or attended MUSD schools? My son and daughter (Class of 2012 and 2019 respectively) attended Sinnott, Weller, Randall, Rancho, and MHS. What motivated you to want to join the MUSD Board of Education? My successes to date are due to the educational opportunities that I received. It is clear to me that education is the “ true equalizer” and I want to give back to the community by helping to create those opportunities for our future generation. What do you feel is the most important part of being on the school board?
What are you most proud of during your term on the school board?
What is your favorite pastime?
Tell us something about yourself that we may not know: I enjoy playing Magic the Gathering among other card games.January is School Board Recognition Month, where we salute our MUSD Board of Education Trustees who aid in supporting student success by establishing our mission, vision, policy priorities, budget and benchmarks. This year we are highlighting each of our trustees. ![]() January is School Board Recognition Month, where we salute our MUSD Board of Education Trustees who aid in supporting student success by establishing our mission, vision, policy priorities, budget and benchmarks. This year we are highlighting each of our trustees. Name: Kelly Yip-Chuan Current School Board Title: Board Vice President Years on School Board: 5+ Past School Board Titles w/years: 2023-Present Board Vice President, 2022-2023 Board Clerk, 2021-2022 Board President, 2020-2021 Board Vice President, 2019-2020 Board Clerk, 2018-2019 Board Trustee Professional Occupation: Real Estate/Mortgage Broker & Notary Public How long have you lived in Milpitas? Since 2008 Did you attend MUSD schools? No Do you have any children who currently attend or attended MUSD schools? Yes, currently my three daughters are attending MUSD- Kaylana is a senior at MHS, Carissa is a freshman at MHS, Karina is a 7th grader at TRMS What motivated you to want to join the MUSD Board of Education? Having served in various PTAs, School Site Council, CBAC and being a substitute teacher for many years motivated me to do more. Being an involved parent gave me some insights into what's going on at the school. Being a teacher in the classroom gave me a different perspective. I have different viewpoints and experiences that could benefit the district. What do you feel is the most important part of being on the school board? Listening to the needs of our district and finding ways to address them through our mission, vision, policies and resources. Each of the board members have a unique and valuable background we bring to the table to collaborate and find solutions. What are you most proud of during your term on the school board? There are so many things to be proud of serving in one of the finest districts. Notably, the recent inauguration of the MUSD Innovation Campus marks a significant milestone, and I am excited for the groundbreaking ceremony of our upcoming MHS Performing Arts Center. MUSD creates pathways that empower students to succeed in their chosen field. I am also proud of our MUSD team. To be successful in carrying out our mission, vision, policies, and ultimate objectives, you need to have a team of hard working and dedicated individuals. I am also super proud of our Superintendent Cheryl Jordan for being recognized as ACSA State Superintendent of the Year. Witnessing this historic achievement together with our entire board in Sacramento was truly a memorable experience. What is your favorite pastime? Traveling, playing volleyball, going to the gym, binge-watching all my favorite shows (Law & Order SVU, Chicago Fire, Quantum Leap, AGT) that I missed during my busy schedule. Tell us something about yourself that we may not know: I have over 50+ first cousins just on my mom's side. ![]() January is School Board Recognition Month, where we salute our MUSD Board of Education Trustees who aid in supporting student success by establishing our mission, vision, policy priorities, budget and benchmarks. This year we are highlighting each of our trustees. Name: Chris Norwood Current School Board Title: Milpitas Unified School District Governing Board Trustee Years on School Board: 10 Past School Board Titles w/years:
Professional Occupation: Educational Services How long have you lived in Milpitas? A long time Did you attend MUSD schools? Joseph Weller Elementary School, Thomas Russell Middle School, Milpitas High School Do you have any children who currently attend or attended MUSD schools? Yes, John Sinnott Elmentary School, Rancho Milpitas Middle School, Milpitas High School, San Jose City College - Milpitas Extension What motivated you to want to join the MUSD Board of Education? (3 parts) Part 1: I have always been motivated to serve my community. Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the Most Powerful Weapon in the World.” Milpitas raised me to have a unique, faith-based, multicultural and inclusive lens. I graduated from Milpitas High in 1983 and began supporting different schools in MUSD in various capacities in 1986. I volunteered in classrooms, coached boys and girls basketball at MHS and Calaveras Hills HS, donated for field trips, volunteered to chaperone field trips, hosted free math, AP Computer Science prep, Cyber Security camps and more. Part 2: I first became interested in political office in 2008 when Barack Obama was elected. My dad was still alive and I saw how proud he was to be living in a moment he thought he would never see. I have never seen him so proud. In 2011, my dad died from cancer and he wasn’t supposed to. In 2014, I was inspired by former MUSD school board members from that era and proceeding, City of Milpitas former and current elected officials, the previous Superintendent, Milpitas residents, and community members who had children in Milpitas schools. I didn’t want to do it. I said “No" quite a few times. I am grateful for those around me who are persistent. Part 3: I ran for Milpitas High School Associated Student Body (ASB) President in 1983 as a Senior, lost, and never forgot. What do you feel is the most important part of being on the school board? The most important part of being on the school board is recognizing a school board member wears “multiple hats." The first hat is we are one of 5 governing officials for the school district as a whole with specific fiduciary duties and responsibilities defined by the education code and other applicable laws. We do not run the district, we govern how the district runs through the development of policies, procedures, resolutions, etc. The second hat is we are a community listener/learner/leader and have been selected to represent the voices of the entire community in the Milpitas public education arena. There is a lot to learn about public education and all of the different voices within. The third is we are also critical decision makers and our (almost volunteer) work is extremely time consuming, requires a commitment to lots of reading, making (life changing) votes in short periods of time, and constant reflection. What are you most proud of during your term on the school board? I am entering my 3rd term on the school board. Each term has been a learning experience of service, expanding my knowledge of education, politics, community, budgeting, negotiations, effective communications and relationships. I am most proud of how often each board unanimously agreed on the decisions made on behalf of the MUSD and how we figured out how to work together as a successful team. Successful teams aren’t supposed to always agree or get along. I am proud of being recognized as the California State School Board Member of the Year in 2020 and Superintendent Cheryl Jordan being recognized as the ASCA State Superintendent of the Year in 2023. While I don’t do this for recognition, I recognize the community value of these types of prestigious opportunities. I am hopeful it has opened doors for Milpitas being a destination for high performing education leaders who deeply care about impact, new funding opportunities, partnerships and more. I am also proud of being an integral part of creating the future roadmap for education in the Milpitas Unified School District for years to come. During my first term (2014-2018), there was the return of the Milpitas Elementary Olympics which began in 1977, beginning of Love4Literacy, selection of Superintendent Jordan, board meeting recognitions of students, expanded technology budget to move to 1:1 devices for students, increased attention in grant writing, SJCC Community College - Milpitas Extension opening, Mabel Mattos Elementary School opening, and donations from community partners. During my second term (2018-2022), we revitalized relationships with city, county, state and federally elected officials, began a deep dive into building inclusive practices for our neurodiverse students (still a work in progress), MUSD EducatEveryWhere for MUSD students and food/mask/vaccine distribution to Milpitas residents in response to COVID-19, refinancing older bonds for lower interest rates to decrease taxpayer burdens, additional of athletic track fields at both middle schools, updating Maintenance, Operations & Transportation (MOT) and student nutrition facilities, broke ground for MUSD Innovation Campus and completed Mabel Mattos Elementary School. In my 3rd term (2022 - present), so far we opened the MUSD Innovation Campus and will be breaking ground on the MHS Performing Arts Center. The MHS Performing Arts Center was something promised to the community before my term on the school board and I’m excited to see it happen. Our arts programs have grown significantly over the years. We’ve raised several million dollars through relationships and I would like us to continue to minimize taxpayer burden whenever possible. And while I am proud of what’s been accomplished, there is so much more work to be done! What is your favorite pastime?
Tell us something about yourself that we may not know: “I was cut from my high school basketball team in my sophomore year of high school, came back to coach at MHS several years later, and was a part of the Milpitas High School Boys Varsity Basketball team Central Coast Section (CCS) Championship Coaching Staff. I don’t have to win one way or the other. I just have to keep trying until I do.” January is School Board Recognition Month, where we salute our MUSD Board of Education Trustees who aid in supporting student success by establishing our mission, vision, policy priorities, budget and benchmarks. This year we are highlighting each of our trustees. |
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING:
The governing board of Milpitas Unified School District will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, June 28, 2022. Media ResourcesArchives
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