Velázquez, who has represented a large portion of Pasadena’s west side, said serving District 7 families, students, educators and community members “has been one of the greatest honors of my life.” She highlighted major campus investments, expanded dual-language programming and advocacy for Latino families as central parts of her tenure.
Velázquez said one of her proudest accomplishments was supporting the approval of $127 million for the restoration and modernization of San Rafael Elementary School, a Pasadena campus she said had waited decades for critical improvements. She also cited broader facilities upgrades throughout District 7, describing them as long-term commitments that future generations will benefit from.
She said she championed districtwide consistency in Spanish dual immersion programs, noting that all three now use a unified curriculum. Velázquez said she leveraged personal relationships and her board role to secure “meaningful, high-quality training” for educators.
Her statement also emphasized her work with English Learners, describing the issue as deeply personal because she learned English as a second language. Velázquez said she served as a liaison to English Learner families and helped create a districtwide celebration to strengthen connections and advocacy.
Velázquez said she supported math intervention programming now being piloted across Pasadena Unified and advocated for the Linda Vista community by backing improvements to a long-neglected space while preserving a neighborhood park.
Following the Eaton Fire, she said she worked with the Madison Heights community on collaborative decision-making, traffic management and the transition to the Allandale Campus.
Velázquez said she remained accessible to District 7 families, strengthened relationships with Latino residents in Pasadena, supported organizations such as Voces Unidas, and backed policies aimed at improving educational outcomes and family engagement.
She said she typically does not list accomplishments but chose to do so because “recent criticism has led me to reflect on the many collective achievements” made through community partnership.
Velázquez stressed that her decision not to run again “is not the result of accusations or criticism that have recently circulated,” saying it was important to separate those matters from her choice.
She also reflected on the challenges of public service, saying she would offer “nuanced” advice to anyone considering a school board run. She said parents should think carefully because “elected service is not always a safe place for the children of those who serve.”
Despite those challenges, Velázquez said she remains proud of her work and the relationships she built, particularly within Pasadena’s Latino community. She said her commitment to public education, equity and service “remains unchanged.”
“The need for representation remains,” she said. “The need for advocacy remains. And the need to ensure that every student and family feels seen, heard, and valued remains.”
Velázquez ended her statement by thanking District 7 residents for the opportunity to serve.
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