Camille Harris is running for San Diego Unified School District Board of Education District D as the endorsed candidate of the Republican Party of San Diego County.
Knowing early on that she would dedicate her life to a career in education, Camille left San Diego for Azusa Pacific University, where she earned a Master’s Degree in Educational Counseling and subsequently a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership.
Promptly returning to her native San Diego, Camille began working as a counselor at Horton Elementary High School in Chollas View. Currently, she is a professor at both Point Loma Nazarene College and San Diego Miramar College, and also mentors students who aspire to become educators in the future.
Fully understanding that San Diego Unified School District has not done enough to support students—as evidenced by only 56% of students being proficient in English and only 45% proficient in math—Camille believes that closer attention to students should be paid both in the classroom and at home. She knows that struggling students are often dealing with issues at home. Harris has spent a great portion of her career as a counselor helping students with a troubled personal life, and will certainly make sure that SDUSD begins to do the same.
If elected, among Camille’s top priorities will be a focus on leadership and accountability. She believes that politicians, having found no success elsewhere and who are disconnected from families, have diluted the district’s ability to connect with students. Camille believes that the district must include parents in the educational process and develop a cohesive community to ensure the success of students.
Career readiness is another prime concern for Harris. It’s a shame that a district in San Diego—home to numerous innovative companies and top universities—cannot use its location to more effectively prepare students for successful careers. Equally important to Camille is to stress the fact that a four-year university right after high school is not the best option for every student. Community college and technical training should also be embraced as alternative paths for many students.
Ultimately, Camille isn’t interested in a higher pay or the opportunity to advance her political career.
“Unlike others who sit on the board, I’m not trying to use it as a stepping stone to anything else,” said Harris. “My entire career has been devoted to helping children reach their full potential, addressing their educational and emotional needs, and making sure they grow up healthy, happy, and prepared for the world.”
For more information about Camille’s campaign for San Diego Unified School District, visit HarrisForSchools.com.
