Tonight, Ventura City Councilmember Liz Campos and I had the opportunity to visit the De Anza Academy of Technology and the Arts Maker Faire on Ventura’s west side, and honestly, we both left tonight’s event incredibly inspired.
What the Students Built
From woodworking projects to student-designed video games to jewelry, art, engineering, and creative design work, the talent, imagination, and confidence these students displayed was absolutely remarkable.
This is exactly why schools like De Anza matter.
Public Education Is More Than Test Scores
Ventura Unified has some truly special programs that help students discover who they are, develop real-world skills, and explore creativity in ways that go far beyond traditional classroom learning. Events like tonight remind us that public education is about so much more than test scores. It is about giving young people the tools, support, and opportunities to dream bigger.
When we talk about what is worth protecting in our district, this is it. Not abstract budgets or org charts. Rooms full of kids building things with their hands and their imaginations.
Showing Up
As someone aspiring to serve on the Ventura Unified School Board, it was an honor to be present for such an incredible evening and to see firsthand the innovation happening inside our schools.
And it was an even greater honor to attend alongside Councilmember Liz Campos, who continues to be such a strong advocate for Ventura’s west side and the families who call this community home.
Tonight felt hopeful. And in times like these, hope matters.