Eileen Cassidy Rivera

Candidate for School Board District A

Age: 42

Residence: Del Ray.

Education: BA, international relations, American University; MBA, international business, American University.

Occupation: Vice president, Pearson Government Solutions.

Elected offices/civic activities: Former member, Virginia Business Education Partnership; former president, Herbert Street Homeowners Association; member, Lyles-Crouch Traditional Academy PTA and Del Ray Citizens Association; den mother, Cub Scout Pack 522, St. Rita's Roman Catholic Church.

What do you think is the most urgent problem facing your jurisdiction? "My goal is to put Alexandria's children first, where they belong. As our future leaders, we need to ensure that the educational needs of all of Alexandria's children are being met. I want to make Alexandria's school system even better than it is today. I am focused on three areas: 1) recruit and retain high-quality teachers; 2) ensure our children not only get a great, basic education but learn the skills to become responsible, contributing and successful citizens in the global economy; 3) identify ways to close achievement gaps among our students."

Why should voters elect you? "I am a dynamic, experienced and progressive leader with the capacity and commitment to better connect our schools with Alexandria's families, city government and communities."

Web site: www.eileencassidyrivera.com

E-mail address: eileencrivera@comcast.net