Dr. Akilah Weber’s dedication to education is multi-faceted and deeply ingrained in her personal and professional life. As an educator at the UC San Diego School of Medicine, she actively contributed in shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals, instilling in them not only the necessary medical knowledge but also the values of empathy and patient-centered care. Dr. Weber’s role as a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) teacher exemplifies her commitment to inspiring young minds and nurturing their interest in fields crucial to our society’s advancement.
Dr. Weber firmly believes that great schools serve as the bedrock of healthy communities, and the investments made in education have long-lasting effects that span generations. She recognizes that by providing children with a strong educational foundation, we not only prepare them for success but also contribute to the well-being and prosperity of our entire community. Dr. Weber’s deep commitment to education is a testament to her vision for a healthier future for all.
The Special Education Parental Notification Act (AB 611) addresses a critical aspect of special education in California. The bill stipulates that local educational agencies must promptly inform parents and/or guardians, either through email or regular mail, within 14 days of becoming aware of any alteration in the certification status of a nonpublic school. Ensuring that parents and guardians are promptly informed about changes in a nonpublic school’s certification status allows them to make informed decisions about their child’s education. This information empowers families to consider alternative educational options if necessary and helps safeguard the quality and suitability of special education services, ultimately promoting the well-being and academic progress of students with special needs. It provides a vital layer of accountability and ensures that parents have the information they need to advocate for their children’s education effectively.
The Schools Against Hate Violence Act (AB 1327) will enhance community safety and awareness by mandating the creation of a standardized incident reporting form for tracking hate violence and hazing at high school sporting events, with results to be publicly accessible on the California Department of Education’s website. This legislation promotes transparency and accountability, empowering communities of color, and helping to create safer and more inclusive high school sporting environments while addressing racial discrimination and fostering community well-being through informed policy measures.
Akilah secured a $300 million allocation for the Equity Multiplier Funding in the 2023 budget. The Equity Multiplier Funding serves as a critical resource, specifically designated to provide evidence-based services and support to students at various school sites. With this funding, Akilah is championing evidence-based solutions that will enhance the educational experience and empower students to reach their full potential, ultimately fostering a more inclusive, prosperous, and healthy community.
Akilah successfully steered the passage of AB 2598, heralding a transformative shift in our criminal justice system by emphasizing healing and rehabilitation rather than punitive approaches. This accomplishment was further underscored by her achievement in securing $7 million in the budget, earmarked for facilitating grants to enable schools to embrace restorative justice practices, marking a pivotal moment in the promotion of these values within educational contexts.
In 2021, Akilah introduced AB 914, a crucial initiative aimed at ensuring the success of students in California’s higher education institutions. The bill mandates that the California State University (CSU) system submits an annual report detailing completion rates, earned credits, and GPAs for students during their initial three semesters. By providing this comprehensive data, AB 914 facilitates a thorough examination of potential barriers to student success and helps the Legislature make informed decisions to enhance college readiness programs. The goal is to address and eliminate long standing equity gaps within the CSU system, promoting an inclusive and supportive environment for all students pursuing higher education in California.
In 2022, Akilah introduced AB 1632, also known as the Restroom Access Act, which focuses on ensuring restroom access for individuals with certain medical conditions. The bill allows people with eligible medical conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease or other medical conditions that require immediate access to restroom facilities, to use employee restrooms in retail establishments. This measure aims to provide essential accommodations and dignity for those who may urgently need restroom access due to their medical conditions.
Athletic Training Practice Act, AB 796, addresses a notable gap in California’s current regulations by establishing the California Board of Athletic Training. California is currently the only state without specific requirements for proper education and training to practice athletic training. That’s why Akilah introduced this bill in 2023, to rectify this by granting the newly formed board the authority to oversee licensing, regulation, and disciplinary actions related to athletic trainers. The Act ensures that individuals cannot practice as athletic trainers or use specific titles without obtaining a license from the Board, thereby promoting standardized qualifications and professional standards in the field of athletic training within the state.
Millions of Californians do not have a primary care physician, either because they lack insurance, lack information or access to care, or feel that they do not need one. But the evidence shows that many long-term health problems develop over time, and access to primary care can improve outcomes and prevent dangerous conditions later. Akilah will push for investments in primary care clinics and services to improve public health and reduce long-term costs.
Making public colleges tuition-free is a crucial step towards ensuring that higher education is accessible to all students, regardless of their financial background. This policy promotes equal opportunities and empowers more individuals to pursue their dreams and contribute to society through education.
STEM education is an investment in our future workforce. By preparing students for high-paying jobs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields, we can drive innovation, economic growth, and global competitiveness.
Ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, have equal access to quality education and the tools needed to succeed is an imperative goal. This effort promotes fairness and equity in our educational system.
Providing better compensation to our teachers is essential for attracting and retaining talented educators who play a pivotal role in shaping the future. By providing competitive compensation, we can motivate and retain the best teachers, ultimately improving the quality of education and student outcomes.
This is a vital investment in our youngest learners, setting the foundation for future academic success and personal development. It provides children with a strong start in their educational journey, ultimately benefiting society as a whole.
Directing dollars to the classroom, rather than bureaucracy, is a practical approach to maximizing the impact of education funding. By prioritizing resources that directly benefit students and teachers, we can create a more efficient and effective educational system.
FOR ALL OFFICIAL 79th DISTRICT INQUIRIES AND PRESS:
FOR ALL CAMPAIGN RELATED INFORMATION CALL:
(619) 514-1279 or aweber@drakilahweber.com
FOR ALL ENDORSEMENT INFORMATION:
CAMPAIGN PRESS: DIANE CASTAÑEDA
Dr. Akilah Weber for State Senate 2024 ID #1459901
6353 El Cajon Blvd. Suite 124#121 San Diego CA 92115
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