WHY I SUPPORT TALIA RODRIGUEZ

WHY I SUPPORT TALIA RODRIGUEZ,
By Paulette Woods

As a longtime advocate for equity and opportunity in Buffalo Public Schools, I am proud to support Talia Rodriguez for the West District seat on the Buffalo Board of Education.

Talia is a lifelong Buffalonian who has devoted her career to public service and improving the lives of families. She holds a Juris Doctor from the University at Buffalo School of Law, a Master’s from SUNY Empire State University, and a Bachelor’s degree from St. John Fisher University.

Her commitment to public service runs deep. She completed a yearlong internship at the U.S. Supreme Court, and the Buffalo City Human Trafficking and Family Violence Courts, she also spent a year working directly combating domestic human trafficking and violence against women.  Her education and experience across multiple levels of government have prepared her to navigate complex systems and deliver results for our students.

Talia has a strong record of action. She played a crucial role during the formation of the Buffalo Public Schools Saturday Academy program, ensuring families had access to enrichment programs, wraparound services, and community support. She also secured funding to sustain programming in our community for years to come.

In addition, Talia has been instrumental in addressing food insecurity. She established a summer lunch program in Riverside and secured funding for multiple school-based food pantries so that no child in Buffalo Public Schools goes hungry.

Talia’s vision for Buffalo’s schools is rooted in equity, family engagement, and student success. She believes every child deserves access to high-quality instruction, safe and inclusive schools, and the resources to thrive, no matter their ZIP code or background.

Talia brings the energy, compassion, and professional expertise our Board needs to continue improving outcomes for students and families. I am proud to stand with her and encourage West District residents to cast their vote for Talia Rodriguez.

— Paulette Woods
Buffalo Board of Education, Central District Member