League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Santa Clara County, CA November 2, 2004 Election
	Gary Rummelhoff Answers Questions Candidate for Member; Santa Clara County Board of Education; Trustee Area 4

Read the answers from all candidates.

Questions & Answers

1. What do you see as the role of the County Board of Education in relation to local school districts and the State Department of Education?

The CBE has the opportunity to provide leadership for public education in Santa Clara County by defining and bringing attention to key educational issues. The CBE should lead the way in collaborative efforts between the COE and local districts that will maximize the use of limited resources. The CBE should develop a vision that includes delivering value-added services to local districts. Finally, the CBE is accountable for fulfilling the legal oversight of local districts required by the State Department of Education.

2. What should be the role of the County Board of Education with regard to charter schools?

The CBE is the final board of appeal. To the extent possible, the CBE should remain removed from these matters allowing local districts to approve charters and track performance. The CBE should be vigilant regarding cross-district issues if they emerge (chartering in a district different than the geographical offering of the charter school).

3. What changes, if any, would you recommend in the County's special education programs?

Work more closely with local districts to target programs that will reduce encroachment on the general funds. With inadequate funding under IDEA, local districts are heavily burdened and need to the help from the well-trained staff of the COE.