League of Women Voters of California
Santa Clara County, CA November 5, 2002 Election
	Theo Olson Answers Questions Candidate for Board Member; Mountain View-Whisman School District

The questions were prepared by the League of Women Voters of Los Altos/Mtn. View Area and asked of all candidates for this office.

Read the answers from all candidates.

Questions & Answers

1. The California High School Exit Exam results showed that a number of Mountain View-Whisman graduates did not pass the Exit Exam on their first try. Given that the math portion of the Exit Exam tests mostly seventh grade math standards and the English Language arts portion requires strong English language skills, how do you plan to address these related issues at the kindergarten through eighth grade preparatory levels?

I see four action items to closing the achievement gap:
a. continue working with the high school district to share test result data and to align our curriculum
b. informing students and parents about the use of standards-based instruction and reporting
c. using test result data to design curriculum, instruction, and staff development to cover any gaps, and
d. providing support for pre-school, tutoring, additional English Language instruction, and multi-modal/differentiated instruction

2. Where do you want the Mountain View-Whisman School District to be five years from now? In your view, what steps should the district take to get there?

Our overarching goal is to assist students to achieve academic excellence. In my view, over the next five years we need to do three things to this end:

a. Work on continuous improvement in all areas of the district.
b. Enhance classroom instruction by utilizing technology.
c. Develop a reputation for great communication.

3. How would you create a climate of inclusivity, respect, and openness so that diverse members of the community could be brought together to address the educational needs of Mountain View-Whisman children?

Again, communication is the key. We need to provide a variety of ways for parents and community members to learn what is going on in the district. For me it is also about connecting the wider community and education. According to the 2000 Census, 78% of Mountain View households are without children. This is a huge, untapped resource. Together we can create unique opportunities for adults to connect with and support our schools by volunteering or mentoring. We also need to build our own Mountain View-Whisman traditions, like the spring music concert at Shoreline Park.

As one of the 78%, I will expand the board's perspective in setting direction for the district. I can listen objectively to what others have to say, weigh it and decide what makes the most sense for the district as a whole.