Dan Flores Announces Candidacy for CJUSD School Board

Dan Flores is running for re-election to the Colton Joint Unified School District’s (CJUSD) Area 2 to represent most of Colton, Reche Canyon, parts of southern San Bernardino and Loma Linda. Elected to the board in 2012 to fill a vacated seat, Flores said he has an overall goal of “create(ing) an educational environment that promotes success for every student,” with importance placed on schools’ roles in “growing the economy.” Flores pointed out that families move into communities known for having “good schools.” Flores said he is also focused on more student exposure to vocational training. “While I believe every student should have the opportunity to go to college, not every student must go to college,” said Flores. “We should expose our students to a variety of careers and encourage them to explore what they’re passionate about, be it college or a career.” A public administrator for San Bernardino County Supervisor Josie Gonzales, Flores is a graduate of Colton High School, holds a bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University, a Master of Theological Studies from Harvard and a Master of Public Administration from USC. During his tenure on the board the district adopted in 2013 its first positive budget since 2008, “protect(ing) our students from damaging cuts,” Flores said. “Now it is time to restore school days, fill support positions and expand learning opportunities for our kids.” Flores explained he also wants to help implement student support in all areas of life. “Many students struggle with challenges outside of the classroom, from poverty, to bullying, to behavioral health diagnoses. Our kids need more than just academic support; they need emotional and social support so they can succeed.” “I want to give back to the schools that helped me become the person I am today,” Flores said. A father to two with a child on the way, Flores added, “It’s important that I do everything I can to make these schools the very best they can be for my children and every child in the district.” Other Area 2 candidates are: incumbent and board Vice President Pilar Tabera, and Juan Rodriguez.