Deena Kaplanis - School Board Candidate

Deena Kaplanis, a Livermore parent and business owner, has entered the race for the LVJUSD school board. As a parent and aunt of many school age children in Livermore, Kaplanis holds academic excellence in high priority. As a successful businesswoman, she values accountability and has high expectations of those in public office. Kaplanis is a long-time resident of the community and owner of multiple businesses, including being a practicing healthcare professional. In addition, she volunteers time to serve the Livermore community as an active PTA board member, a participant in the district’s Parent Information Council meetings, a team parent in multiple sports leagues, a participant in the local non-profit Monthly Miracles, and a volunteer in her church’s children’s ministry.

Kaplanis’ priorities as a member of the LVJUSD school board include analyzing and improving school safety and allocating funds where necessary to secure all campuses with features such as power locks and cameras. She is concerned with current student reading and math test scores, in the 50-60% range, and targeting ways to improve academic success to match neighboring districts. Kaplanis would like to identify and implement tools for improving student mental health, including introducing meditation and wellness courses. Finally, she would like to see the district analyzing ways to bring back more courses and pathways for students who have the aptitude to be successful in the trades.

Overall, Kaplanis aims to improve the performance of schools while being responsive to the priorities and concerns of taxpayers, unifying the community for the betterment of our students.

Kaplanis is endorsed by Alameda County Supervisor, David Halbert, Alameda County Board of Education Trustee, Janevette Cole, Alameda County Deputy Sheriff's Association, Alameda County Bart Police Union, Honorable Former SSFUSD School Board President Laurie Masetti, and Veterans Affairs Commissioner, Ronnie Forbes.