Will’s Background

First: Public School Student

I’m a geek. I love learning! That love of learning was fostered, as I grew up in Arizona’s public education system.

At the same time, I was always aware that Arizona was cutting funds from our public schools. And I’ve always thought that our public education could be great if it were fully supported. By the legislature, by the school boards, by all Arizonans. I’m here to step up and support.

Next: Public Interest Lawyer

Love of learning sustained me as I went to college at Northern Arizona University, and then graduated with my law degree from the University of Arizona. I’ve been a lawyer now for over 10 years… first in “public interest” law, where I helped families struggling with evictions, predatory lending, and divorce. More recently, I have been a public defender for both the Pascua Yaqui Nation and Pima County.  I know that for many kids school discipline is a fast track to getting stuck in our criminal justice system. Black students, indigenous students, and other students of color often feel unsafe around armed law enforcement. Armed guards on campus don’t stop school shootings; it’s time we had more counselors and fewer police in our public schools. 

Now: Public School Father

I’m a father to two young girls. My wife and I are so proud of our 6 year old starting 1st grade this year in TUSD.

As a father of two young children, I worry about their future. I don’t know who they will grow up to be. But I want them to feel supported to be the best possible versions of themselves. That’s why I volunteer on field trips and in the classroom. We don’t all have the luxury to take time off work and volunteer in our children’s classrooms, though. So that’s why I’m running for TUSD School Board — to bake into the system support for all children and teachers.