Meet Christiaan VandenHeuvel, Candidate For Livermore School Board

LIVERMORE, CA — Patch reached out to all candidates for the LVJUSD Board of Education with identical questions. Here are the responses from Christiaan VandenHeuvel, a pastor, LVJUSD parent, substitute teacher, community volunteer, former Livermore High School PTSA president, School Site Council member, and Reopening Task Force member.

Responses have not been altered.

1. What is your personal, educational, and professional background?

I am originally from the Netherlands and immigrated to the United States at the age of 20, where I had to rapidly learn English. My professional background spans roles as a pastor and director, deeply rooted in community leadership and service. I have also served as a substitute teacher in the Livermore school district the past years, giving me firsthand experience with the educational environment here.

2. How long have you lived in Livermore?

I have worked in the Livermore community since 2001 and have been a resident of Livermore for over ten years. During these decades I have been able to establish deep ties with the community and its educational institutions.

3. What brought you here?

I was drawn to Livermore for its strong sense of community and because I love the people of Livermore. I worked here for 13 years before moving into town.

4. How have you been involved in the community?

My community involvement includes serving as PTSA president at Livermore High School for three years, participating on the School Site Council at both Livermore High and East Avenue Middle School, and being a member of the Reopening Task Force during the pandemic. I have always been very active as a parent by getting involved in the classroom as a volunteer over the past 10 years. Additionally, I frequently substitute teach within the district.

5. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges facing LVJUSD?

Some of the biggest challenges include ensuring equitable opportunities for all students, addressing the unique needs of diverse learners, and managing resources efficiently to maintain high educational standards in the face of budget constraints.

6. What are your plans for addressing them?

My plans involve advocating for data-driven educational practices, promoting an inclusive environment that accommodates diverse learning needs, and fostering a collaborative board culture that emphasizes practical solutions over polarization.

7. What makes you the best candidate?

My unique blend of personal experience as an immigrant, English learner, professional background and community service, and a proven track record of empathetic, pragmatic problem-solving makes me uniquely equipped to contribute effectively to the school board.

8. Outside of politics, what do you enjoy doing?

Outside of my professional and civic responsibilities, I enjoy spending time with my family, staying active through biking and working out, enjoying all that Livermore has to offer, and engaging in community service through my church.

9. Any other comments?

I am committed to making a positive impact on the Livermore Joint Valley Unified School District by ensuring that every student has the resources and support they need to succeed. I believe in the power of education to transform lives and am dedicated to upholding the values of equity, inclusivity, excellence, and innovation in our schools.