Candidate for
Board Member; West Kern Community College District

In many ways, the world our children are entering is far tougher than the world we grew up in. The technology of the 21st century will dwarf the technology of the 20th century.

In view of the corporate mergers, job computerization, etc., that is ongoing, the days of successful mediocrity are over; our children will need to be exceptionally skilled just to survive. Although the rewards may be substantial to those that succeed, success will not be nearly as equitable.

To that end, quality education is essential. Taft College provides such education. It is far advanced over other community colleges not only in academics, but also in environment. Few (if any) community colleges offer dormitories. The ability for students to rent textbooks for a reasonable charge instead of buying them at prohibitive costs (as required at other community colleges) is commendable beyond praise.

But despite my high esteem for the current administration, I feel more can be done. A top priority for any elected education official should be to totally eliminate student fees. In a country as rich as the United States, no one should be denied a college education due to lack of funds or have to take loans to receive one.

Community input is also essential for the success of any government entity, especially those dealing with the education of our children.

The kids of this century are going to find it far tougher to succeed than us "kids of the last century". It's up to us to do all in our power to help them.