Candidate for
Board Member; San Mateo-Foster City School District

Our family is fully committed to the public school system.

I serve on the Site Council for Baywood School. Last fall, I was part of the committee that developed the proposal for the school parcel tax that was needed to help our schools survive the state budget crisis. During the spring of 2003, I helped raise the money for an effective campaign, organized volunteers, and acted as the spokesman for the campaign. In June, Measure B passed with nearly 70% of the vote. I also worked with the school district to develop a strategic plan for recruiting and retaining teachers and other quality staff.

My wife, Michele, is very active in the schools. In addition to being a room parent, she served two years on the Site Council and is the PTA President this year. Our daughter, Maddy, is in the 4th grade.

Professionally, I am an Assistant City Attorney for Hillsborough. I have a private practice in Burlingame as well. Much of my practice involves working with city staffs, Planning Commissions, and City Councils on major projects. I am thoroughly familiar with the operations and budgeting process for public agencies.

I have a wide range of community activities. I am an AYSO Soccer coach again this year. I work with the Youth Leadership Program, which provides leadership training and community service opportunities to high school juniors. I am the Board President of the Chamber of Commerce in Burlingame and I am on the Business and Education Link committee for the San Mateo Chamber of Commerce. In 2002, I completed a year-long course offered by the Leadership Program of San Mateo, Foster City, Burlingame and Hillsborough and am now a member of the Advisory Board for Leadership. This program identifies and supports leaders drawn from government, nonprofits and the private sector.

Through these activities, I have had a chance to meet and work with many of our elected officials. I am proud to say that every member of the City Councils of San Mateo and Foster City have endorsed me for the School Board.

I also have a strong relationship with the teachers and staff that provide the eduction to our children. I worked with many teacher volunteers during the Measure B campaign. I belive that our district should view our teachers and staff as partners. I am proud to have the endorsement of both the teachers association and the classified employees for my campaign.

I believe that our public schools can deliver a high quality education to every student at every achievement level. We have great kids, outstanding teachers, and strong support from parents. If we all work together, our schools can be the equal of any on the Bay Area.