Over a decade ago, I became a Cambridge Public Schools parent for the first time.
Like many families, I wanted the best for my child, but navigating the IEP (Individualized Education Program) process within the Cambridge Public Schools (CPS) was challenging and eye-opening. IEPs are meant to provide individualized support for students with disabilities, but the process can be complex and overwhelming for families trying to advocate for their child’s needs. That experience led me to make an unexpected choice: to homeschool. I went on to educate both of my children at home for seven years.
During those seven years of homeschooling my two children, I quickly realized I wasn’t just their teacher—I became their student too. They couldn’t be more different: one thrives on routine and clear structure but learns more slowly and benefits from visual aids, while the other grasps concepts quickly and constantly seeks more challenging questions, learning best through hands-on creative projects. Navigating these opposite learning styles taught me invaluable lessons about patience, flexibility, and the importance of tailoring education to each child’s unique needs.It wasn’t always perfect (okay, sometimes chaotic!), but it was meaningful and deeply rewarding. I’ll share more stories and insights from that journey soon—there’s plenty to laugh about and reflect on!
Alongside homeschooling, I also became a community organizer, volunteer, and nonprofit founder, creating programs that support education and mental well-being here in the Greater Boston area and beyond.
My Background
But before all that, I was a medical scientist. I earned my Ph.D. in Medicine Science from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden and completed postdoctoral research at Harvard Medical School. My academic and professional journey has taken me across continents—from Asia to Australia, Europe to North America—immersing me in diverse education systems, languages, and cultures. This broad experience has deeply shaped how I understand and approach learning.
I’m also multilingual—I am fluent in English, Mandarin, Malay, and Cantonese—which helps me connect deeply with our community’s diverse families and fuels my strong support for bilingual and immersion programs that honor students’ backgrounds and prepare them for a global future.
Now I’ve returned to CPS—not only as a parent, but as someone deeply invested in building a stronger, more inclusive, and more effective school system.
Through my work, I’ve seen what happens when systems fail to meet the needs of all learners. I’ve also seen what’s possible when communities come together with honesty, compassion, and vision.
My Vision
I’m running for the Cambridge School Committee because I believe every child deserves more than just a good education—they deserve a joyful, supportive, and meaningful one. I truly believe in the power of public education and the importance of building a school system that works for all of us.
With your support, I’m ready to bring both practical experience and heart to the work of reimagining education in Cambridge.
If you share this vision, I warmly invite you to join me—whether by sharing your ideas, supporting the campaign, or simply helping to spread the word. I don’t have all the answers, but I’m eager to listen, brainstorm, and work alongside you to find real, meaningful solutions for our kids and community. Together, we can create a brighter future where every child in Cambridge truly thrives.