“Melissa has proven herself as a versatile leader.  She has consistently shown her dedication to supporting PAUSD students and families.  With her vision, leadership skills, and deep practical experience, she’s an ideal candidate for Palo Alto’s School Board." Judy Kleinberg, Former Palo Alto Mayor, Palo Alto City Council “Melissa’s demonstrated ability to work with the entire community will make her a unifying force on the School Board.  From the moment she takes office, Melissa will provide the citywide schools leadership that our schools need.” Hon. Yoriko Kishimoto, Mayor, Palo Alto “Melissa is thoughtful, caring, focused, and decisive.  I know she will be a responsible and successful leader for our schools.” Lanie Wheeler, Former Mayor, Palo Alto “Melissa’s experience and leadership in our schools and community will ensure that she has the understanding to make the right policy decisions for our children.  She will hit the ground running.” Julie Jerome, Former President PAUSD School Board “Melissa has an exceptional blend of experience and character.  Her collaborative leadership style, creativity, and knowledge of our schools make her an ideal candidate for School Board.” Bern Beecham, Palo Alto City Council Member  “Melissa Baten Caswell will bring the kind of vision, compassion, and leadership needed to ensure that the school district, excellent as it is, helps every student reach his or her potential. We need a school board that is clear-headed and courageous, qualities that Melissa has exemplified throughout her many years as a volunteer." Elaine Ray, Co-founder, Parent Network for Students of Color “Melissa has the business background that the Board will need in dealing with difficult budget issues, and she has demonstrated her commitment to our schools by years of service.” Walt Hays, Community Leader “Melissa is the ‘complete package.’ With her business background and substantial volunteer leadership roles in PTAs and other family/youth non-profits, Melissa will be an immediate and effective contributor to the Board of Education." Barbara Spreng, Community Leader and Tall Tree Award Winner “Melissa’s compassionate and innovative management style has made her an extremely successful schools leader.  She will help our schools plan for a better future.” Samir Tuma, Community Leader “Melissa cares deeply about our kids and our community.  She listens carefully and is a collaborative and thoughtful team member.  She will be a huge asset on the School Board.” Kate Hill, Former President, Palo Alto PTA Council "If we want great schools for decades to come, we can't rest on our laurels. PAUSD needs a school board dedicated to tackling such difficult issues as hte academic achievement gap and the social and emotional health of all students in our district. With her borad professional and volunteer experience, Melissa is just the kind of school board leader we need." Marvina White, Co-Founder of the Parent Network for Students of Color "Melissa is a strong team player who is a good listener and knows how to make tough calls. I look forward to seeing her on the PAUSD Board of Education." Megan Swezey Fogarty, Measure A Co-Chair