I want to commend the courageous Coronado High School students who shared their stories in last week’s Islander Times. Racism, antisemitism, and bullying have no place in our schools or our community. I am particularly distressed by the resurgence of antisemitism, both nationally and locally. It is heartbreaking to hear what these students have endured, though sadly, these stories did not surprise me.
Over the past several months, I have spoken at dozens of community events, reaching hundreds of CUSD parents and grandparents. At every event, someone has shared a story of a child who felt bullied, excluded, or isolated. My own family experienced this to the point that we ultimately moved our children to another school. These experiences are among the reasons I decided to run for the Coronado School Board.
We cannot dismiss these incidents as isolated or accept them as a normal part of growing up. We need a serious, community-wide commitment to making our schools places where every child feels safe, respected, and included.
That commitment requires action. First, we must send an unmistakable message that racism, antisemitism, and bullying will not be tolerated. Second, drawing on my experience in Juvenile Court, I believe we need clear, consistent, and understandable disciplinary policies with meaningful consequences. CUSD’s current discipline policy is lengthy and complicated, and we must make these expectations clearer for students, parents, and staff.
Equally important, we must strengthen support systems for students who experience bullying and those who have the courage to speak up. This is not a challenge our schools can solve alone; parents, teachers, students, and the broader Coronado community all have a role to play.
I am inspired by the students who spoke publicly about their experiences and by the community members who have shared their concerns and ideas for improvement.
Every child deserves to feel safe and welcome at school. We owe it to our students to listen, take action, and do better.
VOL. 116, NO. 42 – Oct. 21, 2026