Candidate for
Governing Board Member; San Luis Coastal Unified School District; Trustee Area 1

Public office is a privilege. Personal views must be placed in the context of what is for the general good. I might personally feel that vocal music is less important than science labs, but the important thing, if I am elected, is to remember that I am not just a private citizen, but a trustee, with an obligation to find out and act on the community's priorities in education.

The public also has a responsibility--to study the candidates and vote. This election is important because we face the challenge of diminishing revenues. Where will we compromise to make ends meet? What can we do to get alternate sources of money for special programs that the district can no longer afford to fund at present levels? How can we preserve as many options as possible? We must be creative and agressive in exploring other government funding sources.

We need to tap talents and energies of parents, college students, and bright, active people who have retired here. Let's try to get help from the older generation, who were drilled in spelling, punctuation, grammar, and sentence structure. At Hastings Law School, there was a group of "retired" professors all over 65, who were a tremendous asset. Let's try to find a way to encourage older people to volunteer in the schools. Even teenagers who pull away from their parents often remain close to the older generation. Many of our teachers would love to work with a senior mentor. Many of our seniors would be thrilled to be called into service. I would like to explore this option.

One more thought. Schools must change as our society changes. They do a pretty amazing job of mirroring our values. I hope you will think about what you want the new superintendent and school board to achieve. Then communicate. You're a vital link. Thank you.