HELPING TEACHERS BE ALL THEY CAN BE

By Paul E Crost

My objective as a board member will be to support teachers by recognizing their critical role in the education of the District's students.

Classroom teachers are the foot soldiers in the war against drugs and gangs in our schools. Teachers are the boots on the ground, working directly with kids, spotting signs of abuse and drug use, inspiring teens to stay in school, providing alternatives and options that will give them hope that there is a better future than getting high, dealing drugs or committing suicide. Just as we need to support our troops when we send them into battle by providing the best equipment and the best leaders, just as we must do everything possible to maintain and boost their morale, so we must work to insure that our teachers have clean classroom environments, air that is not polluted, and necessary books and supplies. Equally important is that we provide the support and leadership from the top down that creates a spirit of hope and possibility. Instead of "That's not possible," we need a "Yes, we can" attitude.

The Marine Corps proudly boasts that Marines are the "Best that they can be." That should be our goal for the teachers who are in the trenches working with kids every day under difficult conditions. As a Board member I will be guided in my decision-making by asking: "Does this action help teachers do the best job they are capable of doing?" "Does this action harm morale or undermine teachers' confidence in the Board and the leadership of the District?" "For those teachers who aren't doing a good job, what can we do to improve their performance?" "And for those teachers and administrators who are incapable of doing a good job, what can be done to remove them and replace them with educators who can meet the highest standards?"

Those of us who have been fortunate enough to have teachers in our lives who have inspired us and given us hope that we can succeed, that we can achieve our goals, know how much impact a teacher can have on a child's life. I can look back on my education from elementary school to college and law school and remember teachers who have guided me, comforted me, and left an indelible mark on my life that has been the foundation for my success. I want to do everything I can to provide that experience to every student in our District. With your help and your vote, I will work to make that happen.

PAUL CROST CANDIDATE FOR LBUSD GOVERNING BOARD DISTRICT 4