Re-Elect Mary Hiền Pollett

Public Education Changed My Life

Immigrant → UCLA Graduate → Teacher → Principal → Chief Business Official + Evergreen Trustee I came to America as an immigrant who spoke no English. Like many students in our community, I had to learn a new language, adapt to a new culture, and work hard to pursue my dreams.

Public education opened doors for me. With the support of caring teachers, my family, and my community, I earned degrees from UCLA and San José State University.

My journey from English learner to educator and elected school trustee is why I believe so deeply in the promise of public education. Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and achieve—regardless of where they begin.

A Life Dedicated to Students

I began my career as a classroom teacher because I wanted to give students the same encouragement and opportunities that had made a difference in my life.

I later became Principal of Yerba Buena High School, where I worked alongside teachers, staff, students, and families to strengthen instruction, expand educational opportunities, and prepare students for college, careers, and life.

Serving as a principal taught me that successful schools are built through strong relationships, high expectations, thoughtful leadership, and a shared commitment to every student.

As an immigrant, teacher, principal, Chief Business Official, and your elected Trustee, I have dedicated more than 25 years to helping students succeed and strengthening public schools.

Serving Evergreen

Leadership Through Experience

In addition to serving as your elected Trustee, I am the Chief Business Official for Millbrae Elementary School District. These are two separate public-service roles that give me a valuable understanding of both educational leadership and school district operations.

As a Chief Business Official, I oversee areas including budgeting, facilities, operations, long-range planning, and the responsible use of public resources.

This experience allows me to understand how board decisions affect classrooms, employees, facilities, and the district’s long-term financial health. I know how to examine a budget, ask informed questions, identify risks, and ensure that public funds are used responsibly.

Rooted in Service

Public service is deeply personal to me. I understand the hopes that immigrant families place in education because my own family once placed those same hopes in our public schools.

I also understand the responsibility that comes with elected office. Trustees must listen to the community, make decisions based on facts, protect public resources, and always keep students at the center of their work.

I am grateful for the trust Evergreen voters placed in me, and I remain committed to serving with integrity, preparation, transparency, and respect.

One lesson I've learned over 25 years in education is that the best decisions come from listening. I'm not perfect. I don't claim to have all the answers. What I do promise is that I'll listen, ask questions, study the facts, and always put students first.

Education and Experience

The Work Continues

Evergreen has much to be proud of, but important work remains. We must address structural financial challenges, retain excellent teachers and staff, protect student safety, strengthen academic achievement, and ensure that every child has access to outstanding educational opportunities.

I am running for re-election because Evergreen needs experienced, steady leadership that understands both education and responsible school district management.

Together, we can protect what is working, address our challenges honestly, and build an even stronger future for Evergreen students.