Dear Colleagues,

It is with pleasure and excitement I begin my service and support as AALA President effective July 1, 2024 for a 3-year term. 

The time is now for change and transformative leadership within AALA. I am thrilled, full of hope and optimism to step forward and represent our diverse membership. I begin feeling a sense of great responsibility at a time when our members are experiencing the burdens of limited human capital. There is no greater example than the hundreds of assistant principals pillaged from our ranks. Then there are budget restrictions and unsustainable working conditions. 

I want you to know:

I see you.

I hear you.

You matter!

It is a new day and a time for change. As your leader and voice for advocacy, I understand the pulse of the AALA membership. I come to you with 37 years of LAUSD service. Twenty (20) of the years have been in an administrative role. I bring experience and recency. I understand first-hand the cuts are deep. We must stand together, in unity to develop one vision and have one voice. I am committed to fostering open communication, increasing collaboration, and coordinating supports and partnerships. 

Communication and Representation:

As AALA President, my foremost commitment will be to establish an inclusive and robust communication system. I will implement a comprehensive needs assessment with opportunities for member surveys and feedback. This will ensure the concerns of members are heard and actively brought to the bargaining table.

This process will empower us to collaboratively address challenges, fostering a sense of common purpose and shared mission as we prepare to enter negotiations in 2025.

Proactive Leadership:

We cannot afford to be reactive in our negotiations. I pledge to lead AALA with foresight and extensive preparation. By understanding and knowing the diverse needs of our members well in advance, we will be positioned to negotiate our contract proactively. This approach will strengthen our bargaining position and demonstrate a commitment to the well-being and satisfaction of all AALA members.

Modernizing Communication:

In an era where new technology continues to develop, I recognize the need to modernize the communication of news and information to our membership. As your president, I will revamp our online presence, updating our website, revitalizing our newsletter, and utilizing social media platforms. These mediums will serve as sources of information, and as avenues for dynamic conversations. This will ensure the diverse voices of AALA members are accurately represented and heard. Your voice matters!

The challenges we face demand me as your leader to be willing to listen and transform those insights into meaningful action. It is time for a new chapter in AALA – one marked by proactive leadership, transparent communication, and unwavering dedication to the needs of every member. 

I humbly ask us to work together, to usher in an era of empowerment, collaboration, and victory for every AALA member.

In Solidarity,

Maria