Education should never be about partisan politics — it is about children, results demonstrating improvement in their performance, and commitment to community. This is why I am voting for
Dr. Michele Cantwell-Copher, and urge you to do the same.

Fresno County holds a diverse population requiring our Superintendent to acknowledge and support needs of children spanning from rural communities to urban neighborhoods. Effective
leadership requires understanding the unique challenges and opportunities that exist across all parts of our county.

Growing up in the small town of Riverdale, Cantwell-Copher understands first-hand that all children in our county deserve representation, opportunity, and programs to foster success. Throughout her career, she has consistently demonstrated that students come first. Beginning as an educator in Clovis at a small school site, she built her reputation on hard work, accessibility, and a deep commitment to children and families.

Cantwell-Copher has been laser-focused during her term to improve achievement in educational goals of students (4% in reading and 6% in math), a safe environment to foster learning, and to utilize tax-payer dollars wisely through fiscally responsible decisions. While no one would argue the work is complete, progress matters. The reality is that improving outcomes across 31 school districts cannot happen overnight. Real educational progress takes time, consistency, and a long-term vision.

Unfortunately, much of the recent criticism of Dr. Cantwell-Copher, which I perceive as disparaging at times, has been centered on politics and campaign tactics. Instead of focusing on
the work done for children by each of the candidates, there has been extensive time spent researching topics such as the validity of endorsements and launching political attacks. We need
to refocus on important conversations about literacy, resource allocation, and long-term infrastructure to take our children into the future.

She Has a Heart for Children

Why do I strongly recommend voting to continue the tenure of our current Superintendent? First, I know the heart Cantwell-Copher has for children. Second, her agenda is geared for
long-term success. She was mentored by two past Superintendent of Schools because she embodied the values and vision that helped shape educational leadership for our county.

My support is also personal. My friendship with her began as 7 year-olds in Riverdale, a small farming community in Fresno County. For the more than 50 years I have known her, I have watched her dedicate herself wholeheartedly to her family, friendships, career, and community. In every area of her life, she has led with integrity, determination, and compassion. She has never let me down and I am certain she will continue to earn your trust through working tirelessly to improve the educational landscape in Fresno County.

Vote Dr. Michele Cantwell-Copher for Fresno County Superintendent of Schools.

About the Author

Julianne Williams, MPH, CGE, is a healthcare management consultant, author, and businesswoman. She resides in Kingsburg.

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