Elect Rita Patel for Monterey County Board of Education Trustee Area 1
My Story
I am a longtime Carmel Unified School District parent, community volunteer, school board trustee, and small business owner. My husband and I are proud parents of four children, all of whom attended Carmel Unified schools from kindergarten through graduation at Carmel High School.
My commitment to public education began as a parent. I was actively involved in our schools and served as a PTA/PTO President for many years before being elected to the Carmel Unified School District Governing Board. I have had the privilege of serving as a Trustee for 10 years and am currently serving my third term.
During my time on the board, I have worked alongside students, families, educators, and community members to strengthen our schools and expand opportunities for students. I have led efforts to establish Wellness Centers, expand Dual Enrollment opportunities, and refinance district bonds to save taxpayer dollars. I also earned my CSBA Masters in Governance and have served in countywide leadership with the Monterey County School Boards Association.
Outside of education, I have owned and operated four independent pharmacies for 20 years, employing 35 people and gaining valuable experience in budgeting, financial oversight, and responsible management.
Today, our four children are building successful lives of their own, and they remain our pride and joy. I am grateful for the opportunity to give back to the community that has given our family so much.
I am running for the Monterey County Board of Education because I believe every student deserves the opportunity to succeed. I look forward to bringing my experience, perspective, and commitment to serving students and families throughout Monterey County.
Goals
Student Success for Every Student
Every student deserves the opportunity to succeed. I will advocate for strong academic programs and expanded opportunities that prepare students for college, careers, and life. This includes supporting Dual Enrollment, career and technical education, student wellness, and programs that meet the needs of students with different goals and learning needs.
Stronger Community Partnerships
Our schools are strongest when families, educators, and communities work together. I will encourage meaningful communication and collaboration among school districts, parents, educators, community organizations, and the County Board of Education. I will work to ensure families have opportunities to be heard and that our schools remain connected to the communities they serve.
Fiscal Stewardship
Responsible management of public funds is essential to maintaining strong educational programs. I will advocate for careful budgeting, transparency, and accountability while ensuring county resources are used effectively to support students and educational priorities. My experience refinancing district bonds and managing a small business has taught me the importance of making thoughtful, fiscally responsible decisions.
Preparing Students for the Future
Our responsibility is not only to help students succeed today, but to prepare them for what comes next. I will support pathways that give students the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need—whether their goals are college, career, technical training, entrepreneurship, or other opportunities after graduation.
Dear Friends & Community Members,
I am honored to ask for your support as I seek election to the Monterey County Board of Education, Trustee Area 1, on November 3, 2026.
For the past 10 years, I have had the privilege of serving on the Carmel Unified School District Governing Board, and I am currently serving my third term. During my time on the board, I have worked with dedicated educators, families, students, and community members to strengthen our schools and expand opportunities for our students.
I have led efforts to establish Wellness Centers, expand Dual Enrollment opportunities, and refinance district bonds to save taxpayer dollars. I have also served as President and Vice President of the Monterey County School Boards Association, giving me the opportunity to work with school leaders throughout our county.
As I look to the Monterey County Board of Education, I want to build on this experience by supporting student success, strengthening community partnerships, and ensuring responsible stewardship of public resources. Every student deserves the opportunity to succeed, and every community benefits from strong public schools.
I would be honored to bring my experience, commitment, and collaborative approach to the County Board of Education. With the support of our students, families, educators, and communities, I believe we can continue to make Monterey County schools among the very best in California.
Thank you for your support and consideration. I would be honored to earn your vote.
Rita Patel
Support Rita
Join us in making a difference by supporting Rita. Your involvement is crucial in driving impactful change and furthering our shared goal of improving student education and building a solid foundation for their future success.
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