Today we’d like to introduce you to Ami Gandhi.
Ami, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
In the words of Franklin D. Roosevelt, “Education is the cornerstone of a democratic society. With education comes the options to pave one’s path.”
This statement highlights the vital role education plays in empowering individuals and fostering a vibrant, informed citizenry. As members of the school board, our responsibility is to ensure that every student has access to a high-quality education, leading to their future success and the betterment of our community. By supporting initiatives that improve test scores, investing in our teachers, and maintaining a strong curriculum, we are not only honoring Roosevelt’s vision but also paving the way for a brighter future for all.
My passion for education is where my story begins. Growing up in a family with a strong belief in the power of education, I chose to move to the renowned Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District (PVPUSD) in 2017 with my husband, Mehul, so that our children could receive the highest quality public education.
After the COVID-19 school shutdown in 2020, a seat on the PVPUSD school board opened up. Driven by my deep commitment to my children’s education and the education of others, I felt compelled to get involved with the district. In 2021, I was honored to be selected from a group of 12 candidates. My initial desire to be involved quickly transformed into a commitment to addressing current issues in our educational system. With the knowledge and experience I gained that first year, I successfully ran for election in November 2022. Currently, in my second year as the board president, I am preparing to run again this November. My unwavering dedication to education and desire to continue the meaningful work in our district fuels my candidacy.
My inspiration to serve on the school board is deeply rooted in my upbringing. My father, Navin Gandhi, a dedicated special education teacher, taught independent living skills to students and adults with developmental disabilities. Witnessing his dedication and the transformative impact of his work, I always understood education. Despite his exhaustion, he found joy in the progress and independence his students achieved. His stories of empowerment left an indelible mark on me, underscoring the profound influence education can have on a life.
I often accompanied my father to work. His students would approach him with hugs and praise, constantly reminding me of the transformative power of education. One student shared how he was able to get an apartment and live independently because of the invaluable skills my dad taught him. Reflecting on that lesson, I believe that the public school system should be welcoming to all students and prepare them for the next phase of their lives, whatever that may be.
The importance of education was not just something I observed at my dad’s workplace but also a value instilled in my sister and me growing up. We were always taught to focus on academics because education creates life opportunities. These opportunities are the same ones I am fighting to guarantee for the next generation in Palos Verdes.
This deep-rooted value inspired me to attend my dream college, University of Southern California. I remember the first day I walked onto campus, mesmerized by its size and intrigued by the endless opportunities it presented. Each door and classroom was a portal to another world waiting to be explored. This moment, which I had hoped for my entire young life, was an opportunity to shape my future and discover where the road would take me. Many years later, as a board member, I’ve also witnessed the transformative power of education right here in my community. I remember a teacher sharing a story about a student who participated in the robotics program and went on to attend Carnegie Mellon University. More recently, a student who graduated this year participated in the PVPUSD theater program and was accepted into her first-choice theater program in college.
In Palos Verdes, we are fortunate to have a school district that consistently ranks among the top in the South Bay and across California. PVPUSD students perform exceptionally well academically, in sports, the arts, and in extracurricular activities. Many of our graduates attend prestigious colleges nationwide, and others find successful pathways in community college, the military and in trades. The robust education that PVPUSD offers is the cornerstone of our community. However, while school board elections should focus on student achievement, in recent years, this focus has been overshadowed by partisan politics and personal agendas. One of the reasons that I am running again for the school board is because I see my role as ensuring that PVPUSD continues its legacy as a top-tier public school district, regardless of politics. PVPUSD must remain a secure and supportive environment for every child, one that prioritizes students’ education and success over political agendas at either end of the spectrum.
The countless inspiring stories of student and teacher achievement that I wish I could share, and my desire to keep the focus on this achievement, inspire me to run again for a seat on the school board. As an incumbent school board member, I bring experience and a commitment to all children’s education in this district. I am supported by teachers, parents, and community members during every step of my journey. This support has motivated me to continue to advocate for common-sense policies that prioritize our students’ well-being and success above all else. My approach has remained consistent from the time I started on the school board, and I will continue to focus solely on the best interests of the students. As I’ve watched my two children, who are currently attending elementary and middle school, grow and progress in their schooling, I am acutely aware of the challenges our students face daily. As a board member, I have shown my commitment to taking on these challenges not just for my kids, but for all students.
My role on the board is not just about leveraging my experience but embodying a passion for education and a steadfast commitment to our youth. I strive to be a relentless advocate for our children, ensuring their voices are heard, and their needs are met. My goal is to foster a positive learning environment that promotes academic excellence and nurtures the potential of every student, while collaborating with various stakeholders in our community to achieve common educational goals.
After serving for three years on the PVPUSD school board, and two years as board president, I bring a wealth of knowledge. While we have accomplished so much, I always see room for growth when it comes to the hopes and dreams an education can provide for the future generation. I am excited at the prospect of working towards these goals for another four years.
Educational Background:
•Bachelor of Science in Biology
University of Southern California
•Master of Public Health
Loma Linda University
Contact Info:
- Website: www.gandhi4pv.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gandhi4pv/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amigandhi4pvpusd
- Youtube: https://youtu.be/jUWQnM6UiEA?si=lpKlZKVZ0bWmlUwJ
- Other: [email protected], http://blog.csba.org/school-boards-in-action-gandhi/
