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Political Philosophy for Tullio 'Til' Bertini |
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This information is provided by the candidate | ||
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Political Philosophy for Tullio 'Til' Bertini |
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This information is provided by the candidate | ||
As a candidate for a non-partisan office, my political philosophy is really my personal philosophy about education. This philosophy is based on the experiences that I have had in my life, as a student, teacher, parent, administrator and trustee. My parents each had only three years of elementary school in Italy. I was successful in graduating from high school and college despite the interruption of World War II. Due to the circumstances, I skipped American school grades 4 through 9, and most of the 10th grade. When I arrived in California I was placed in the high 10th grade because of my age. I had to work hard in high school, and had to support myself financially. My mother encouraged me to continue my studies and said that education was the most important part of one's life. I still firmly believe in that.
Education is the most important component of our society. We must support schools and sound educational programs. The Community College system in California welcomed me in 1948 and because of my experiences at the College of San Mateo, with that little bit of encouragement I was able to continue and graduate from San Francisco State University. I also felt that I would be able to help students in the field of technology and became a high school teacher. The teaching profession was very rewarding to me and I felt good about my job.
Community Colleges are accessible to everyone. They welcome all students, regardless of age and ability. There are programs for everyone. The faculty, staff and administration of our three community colleges, Skyline College, College of San Mateo, and Canada College, are working hard to reach out into their respective communities in order to assist prospective students. We have established English as a Second Language (ESL) programs which help students to reach a certain degree of proficiency in English as they embark on their studies. I am especially sensitive to the needs of limited English speakers, since my English skills were limited when I returned to the United States in 1946. We also operate KSCM-FM and KCSM-TV and promote distance learning in the Bay Area with telecourses.
Each year at graduation time, it is moving to see people of all ages and backgrounds receiving their diplomas, and hear inspirational stories about their successes. It is rewarding to be part of a system that provides educational opportunities to all facets of our society. I am running for a third term because I am a full-time trustee, and I have the experience, desire and commitment to do an effective job as a Trustee for another term.
