1. What is the most important issue in Council District 38 you would address if elected?

As your Councilmember, I will focus first on improving the quality of education in our community. Under my leadership as School Board President in Sunset Park, Red Hook, Park Slope, and Windsor Terrace (1999-2002), the number of kids who could read and do math at grade level rose 15%; the average first grade class size was reduced from 27 to 20; and we started the first all-day pre-Kindergarten program in the entire City. But a great deal remains to be done – and this district badly needs a tireless advocate for our schools, an active and accessible leader who will bring teachers, parents and students together to keep our kids safe and provide a quality education.

2. What other important issues would you address if elected?

Spurring sensible economic development that provides local jobs, builds affordable housing and preserves the character of our community will be a top priority for me if elected to the City Council.

3. What makes you the best candidate for this office?

This community deserves better. We deserve a representative on the City Council who will go to work every day – and be an effective, aggressive advocate for our concerns. My professional background and record of achievement for our community have prepared me well to serve our District in the City Council.

As a child of immigrant parents – a livery cab driver from Corozal, Puerto Rico and a seamstress from a small town in Ecuador – I understand the struggles working families face and the value of hard work. As a graduate of Columbia University and NYU Law School, a former public school teacher and a law school professor, I understand the importance of a good education. And as an Assistant Attorney General in the Office of Eliot Spitzer, representing the interests of New Yorkers in federal and state courts, I have what it takes to find creative solutions to the tough challenges facing our community and to make government work for us.

(Reprinted as supplied by the candidate.)

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