The questions were prepared by the Leagues of Women Voters of Santa Clara County and asked of all candidates for this office.     See below for questions on Finances, Instruction, The Future

Click on a name for candidate information.   See also more information about this contest.

Answer from Linda Chen:

By examing the financial statements, asking questions and get educated about school finance, I will be able to determine that the schools are using federal, state and local funds wisely and fairly.

Since the Board Meeting is a public record, I'll report findings in the Board Meeting. When necessary, I'll hold a press conference.

Answer from David Cohen:

It is a responsibility of the board to thoroughly review all district spending. I would take this role very seriously and ask difficult questions of the administration during every budget planning period. Periodically, the district should also utilize an outside auditor to make sure funds are spent properly. The findings of audits should be made available to the public through the district website. Also, public hearings should be held regularly so that the public feels the district is responsive to their needs.

Answer from David Cohen:

Due to budget cuts, most school districts have had to cut back on some programming. It is important to find ways to offer more "non-academic" programs, like music and art at all levels, and vocational classes at the middle school level. Broadening the minds of students will help achivement and also will provide something to keep kids engaged in school even if they are not excited by core subjects.

The school district needs to make sure that teaching to the test does not result in homogonizing the educational experience. Children at all ability levels need to be pushed so that they can achieve to the best of their ability.

Answer from Linda Chen:

Yes! There are aids and tutors available in most subjects for students who need extra helps.

Answer from Linda Chen:

Continue improvement in academic, maintain student learning enthusiasm, educate whole child with all around programs such as music, art and sport, remodel older buildings with up-to-date equipment and instructional tools, and provide safe environment for positive learning experience.

The steps which District should take to get there will be:
1. Support teachers and administrators in the curriculum plans.
2. Provide a positive role model and rewarding system with high expectation.
3. Provide enough support for the necessary program through external funding and partnerships.
4. Explore different funding resources, partnerships, and various fundraising.
5. Support programs for drug/alcohol, violence abuse and prevention themes including after-school programs.

Answer from David Cohen:

I want all parents to feel confident in our schools. Nobody should have to wonder if sending their children to public schools is the right thing to do. I hope that in 5 years, the Berryessa School District will be at that level. We need to make sure that testing requirements are balanced with a strong curriculum. We need to restore more art, music, and vocational classes. This might be done through partnerships with other schools, governmental agencies, or non-profit organizations.

We need to restore the student-to-counselor ratio so that all children have available to them the support that will motivate them to excel. If students are pushed to greater heights, more of them will get there and fewer will drop out.

Finally, our school district needs to communicate with the high school district in order to make sure the students that pass through our schools are prepared for the high school level. More interaction between middle school teachers and those in high school will result in curriculum that is better tailored to providing a seamless transition.

The order of the candidates is random and changes daily. Candidates who did not respond are not listed on this page.