Candidate for
Governing Board Member; Antelope Valley Joint Union High School District

The 2005 election is very important for the Antelope Valley Joint Union High School District. The rapid growth of the Valley has made the High School District the largest in our community with 24,250 students enrolled in various programs. Our schools are at capacity, but still student populations are far below the levels of LA Unified. My zero tolerance for violent behavior has improved student learning and helped to make our campuses safe and supportive learning environments. My policy has garnered the endorsement of Los Angeles County Sheriff Leroy Baca, who stated in part: "Albert Beattie understands the importance of safety in the Antelope Valley Public Schools."

During my watch the District has maintained strong programs and we have "lived within our means". We have kept our reserves well about the 3% mandatory levels without any personnel reductions. We have encouraged open and informed dialog between all interests, teachers and staff, students and parents, and the community at large.

In addition we have conducted an aggressive building program to house our growing student population. Major upgrades were made to Palmdale, Highland and Antelope Valley, and Quartz Hill High Schools. We have completed two campuses for Alt-Ed programs of Phoenix (north and south). The new campus for Rex Parris continuation High School will be complete by December 2005. Construction on the new comprehensive high school in east Palmdale, Pete Knight High is nearing completion and currently houses about 2,000 students. The new east Lancaster campus of Eastside High is under construction and started it's freshman class this fall.

There is more to be done! We must address the future growth of the valley and the District, under the board's direction has acquired sites to build two more comprehensive high schools that are projected to be needed by 2010.

I am proud to ask for your VOTE this November 7TH.