League of Women Voters of California
Santa Clara County, CA November 4, 2003 Election
	Hal Plotkin Answers Questions Candidate for Board Member; Foothill-De Anza Community College District

The questions were prepared by the League of Women Voters of Los Altos/Mtn. View Area and asked of all candidates for this office.

Read the answers from all candidates.

Questions & Answers

1. Given the fact that budgetary restraints will continue, what programs do you support and what programs would you cut and why? Please be specific.

My first priority will be to ensure that we maintain student access to the core classes required for degree programs and for transfer to four-year, undergraduate institutions.

Before making cuts I would ask the staff and faculty for their input and creative suggestions. Once that information is in hand I would be prepared to take any actions that may be necessary consistent with the above goals.

2. What do you see as the role of the Board in labor negotiations?

The Board serves as the representative of the community and must safeguard its interests in all labor negotiations. It's important to maintain an open, constructive, respectful and collaborative relationship with the groups that represent the district's employees.

3. What suggestions/ideas do you have for increasing alumni and community support for the colleges?

I am uniquely positioned to increase community and alumni support for the colleges. If elected, I would be the first graduate of Foothill College to ever serve on the Foothill-De Anza Board of Trustees. My service on the Board will show one way to "give back" to the schools that have helped many students succeed. I will be in a position to encourage others to give back in other ways. Another way to attract support is to maintain and extend Foothill-De Anza's reputation for excellence. That requires continued innovation and effective outreach to the public.