| Los Angeles County, CA | November 5, 2002 Election |
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City support of the local schools-why is it necessary?By Matteo Dinolfo, MDCandidate for Member, City Council; City of Santa Monica |
This information is provided by the candidate | |
To explain why generous, ongoing financial support of the public schools by the city of Santa Monica is essential to the quality of life of all its citizens.I am strongly in favor of financial support for the school district that is generous and ongoing. Part of the reason that this is so necessary is because the contribution that California schools receive from the state is one of the lowest in the country. I feel that Santa Monica's support should be allocated annually as a percentage of the city's budget, and I would match or increase current levels even if Measure EE, the parcel tax, passes. A long-standing financial commitment will assist the School District in fulfilling areas of need outlined in its recently completed strategic planning process and is essential to maintaining the quality of education in the city. Further, ample funds are critical if we hope to further reduce class sizes and to assist in closing the "performance gap" that is currently of great concern. Excellent schools stabilize the communities they serve. They anchor families to the city itself and are essential to our future. From excellent schools spring a variety of additional goods and services that help "grow" the financial well-being of the city-sports, academic tutoring, camps and enrichment programs are just some examples. They offer the additional benefit to all citizens of increased property values and neighborhood safety. Finally, and quite simply, an excellent education is a lifelong advantage for our children. In addition to providing financial support, I would advocate for the aggressive pursuit of partnerships between the schools and the community that might offer additional funds and services. I would encourage the development of a functional, cooperative partnership between the Board of Education, the College Board, and the City Council. I believe that providing an excellent education is an obligation of the city, and one to which the residents of Santa Monica, and the City Council, should be fervently committed. |
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Created from information supplied by the candidate: October 23, 2002 20:03
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