Office sought: Lewiston School Committee, Ward 5

Social media: Facebook, email and flyers

Occupation: case manager, interpreter and outreach worker at New Mainers Public Health Initiative, a nonprofit he co-founded before working as interpreter in Lewiston public schools. 

Education: 2009 graduate of Lewiston High School, bachelor’s degree in mental health and human services University of Maine at Augusta, pursuing a master’s degree in public health at the University of New England. 

Family: married, one son, expecting a second child in the new year. Extended family in Kenya.

Political experience: Not held office, has helped other candidates run.

Questions

1. Why do you think you’re the best candidate for this seat, and why are you running?

I am experienced in helping children and their families to have a brighter future. My vision in running is to bring change to the Lewiston School Department: reforming English Language Learner programs, add after school and summer programs, improve special education. I believe that every student has a right to access a proper education. As a member of the School Committee, I will listen to parents about what’s best for our children.

 2. What do you like, and what don’t you like, about the school budget passed in the spring? ($41.75 million in Auburn, up by $1 million; $74.3 million in Lewiston, up by $5.5 million)

I like the new budget passed in May because it gives chances for our children to access more services in classrooms. It also created new programs for children with special needs.

 3. When it comes to property taxes, what kind of budget would you support this spring?

To increase the property taxes.

 4. What, to you, is the biggest issue facing Lewiston or Auburn schools, and how would you like to see it addressed? 

Some of the biggest issues facing Lewiston Schools include parents are not fully informed about what is happening in schools. Also, proficiency based learning, big class sizes, a poor special education program. … (We should) reform the ELL program, add after-school and summer programs, and improve special education.

 5. Do you support the merger of Lewiston and Auburn?

No.