Orange County School Board Candidate Proposes Mini-Academies

When Saru Salvi commits to something, she goes all in. Now the retired MBA holder is bringing that energy to Orange County Schools, where nearly half of third through eighth graders aren't reading at grade level.

Salvi is running for the Orange County Schools Board of Education with a mission that hits close to home. Despite struggling with a vision condition that made reading difficult, she fell in love with literature as a child and wants every student to experience that same joy.

The numbers drove her to action. Reading proficiency sits at just 55.6 percent, while math reaches only 61.4 percent. The district's goal of 65 percent proficiency by 2026 isn't enough for Salvi.

Her solution doesn't require a bigger budget. Salvi proposes creating volunteer "mini academies" in community centers and churches across Orange County, where students can get tutored on Saturdays or Sunday afternoons.

The plan brings learning directly to neighborhoods, eliminating transportation barriers that keep many families from accessing help. Local businesses, teachers, retired professionals, and even older students could volunteer their time to lift struggling learners.

Salvi moved to Orange County in 2004 and recently joined the Orange County Schools Priority Area Focus Group. County Commissioner Phyllis Portie-Ascott and State Representative Renée Price encouraged her to run, particularly as the board faces losing its Black representation when André Richmond steps down.

She sees her business background as an asset for negotiating partnerships and solving budget challenges creatively. The school system faces pressure from charter schools and vouchers pulling funding away, making innovative solutions essential.

The Ripple Effect

Salvi's community academy model could transform how Orange County tackles education gaps. By mobilizing neighbors to help neighbors, the plan builds social connections while boosting academic skills.

Students benefit from personalized attention in familiar settings. Volunteers gain purpose and strengthen ties to their community. Parents get support without worrying about transportation or schedules that conflict with work.

The approach recognizes that solving education challenges takes a village, not just a school board. When communities invest time in their youngest members, everyone rises together.

Salvi believes Orange County Schools communicates well but needs to do more to truly hear families' needs and make resources accessible. Her mini academy vision puts those values into practice.

If elected, Salvi promises to jump in with both feet, just as she always has, to ensure no child gets left behind.