Q&A with MUSD School Board candidate Anu Nakka

Name: Anu Nakka

Running for: Milpitas Unified School District (MUSD) Governing School Board Member

Why are you running?

Over the past decade, I have been an executive on PTA/PTSA boards for Sinnott, Rancho and MHS. I would like to bring the advances we made at a school level (like fundraising, new free programs) to the district level. With the recent groundbreaking of the Innovation Campus for MUSD, I thought this would be a suitable time for me to run for the board to help upskilling all MUSD students, including Adult Education.

What’s the biggest problem facing MUSD schools right now? And how would you intend to solve it?

I believe having clear communications between board and community (teachers, parents, and students) is the biggest issue. My experience as a parent, and being part of PTA/PTSAs, has helped me to understand the community needs. I would like to create connected communities in Milpitas, with me being the bridge between board and community.

What would your priorities be should you get elected?

1. I want MUSD to be a connected community, and have transparent communications among all.
2. I want to help children to be physically and mentally healthy. New sports programs and imparting entrepreneurial skills from elementary level.
3. School Safety and Inclusion (expand safety of the infrastructure, provide safety drills and classes to all). Special focus and programs for both high performing kids and special-needs kids. Teach kids to accept people as they are.

What can you bring to the table that you feel no other candidate can bring?

I am an active mom of two children in MUSD schools, and am passionate about the education that is being imparted on them. Being part of PTA/PTSAs for the last few years has helped me understand the needs of the community. I’m highly educated (PhD in Finance & MS in CS); hence I can look at both Fiscal and Technological aspects of programs and suggest fresh perspectives. I also bring my volunteering skills (active volunteer at GS, CERT, ROV, and others).

What makes the MUSD community – leadership, staff, students, families – so exceptional?

Mutual respect, inclusion and forward thinking.

Where do you see MUSD schools 10 years from now?

One of the most competitive school districts in California; not just in education, but also in sports, entrepreneurship, and life skills.

What do you think is the most exciting thing happening at MUSD right now?

The Innovation Campus for High School Students & Adult Education.

Who is your inspiration, and why?

My high school teacher, who was the first to graduate in her family. She gave me courage and encouragement to complete my doctorate in Finance and MS in CS. She always wanted me to keep this Zig Ziggler’s quote next to my bed (reminding me I will be responsible for my life):

“If you are not willing to learn, no one can help you. If you are determined to learn, no one can stop you.”

Can you tell us one interesting thing about yourself that other people don’t really know about?

I like to paint and learn new languages. When time permits, I pick up my canvas/brush and create paintings. I love to learn new languages all the time. I currently speak, read, and write four languages, including German. I practice some unfamiliar words from new languages every day – sometimes annoying my family! 

What’s your favorite spot in Milpitas?

Hidden Lake on North Milpitas Blvd. I love to walk around the lake.

What do you love most about Milpitas?

Community and accessibility to shops, schools, and freeways. I moved to Milpitas after my wedding 20+ years back, and this is the only city I know.