8 Years of Improving Our Schools

By Tammie K. Bullard

Working with parents, community members, and staff, we have accomplished much.

I have had the opportunity to serve on the school board for the past 8 years. I have worked with parents, community members and staff implementing proven curricular programs and prudent policy. Together we have accomplished the following:

Adoption of rigorous academic standards resulting in increased test scores above the national and state averages;

Have a renewed focus on phonics instruction ensuring students can master all subject areas;

Built seven new schools on-time and on-budget, including the new state-of-the-art Beckman High School;

Began a $108 million dollar renovation program for the District's 20 oldest schools. The first phase of the modernization project was completed over the summer with approximately $40 million in improvements being made in just 64 days;

Established the first middle school science and mathematics magnet program;

Continued preparing students for the state-mandated high school exit exam;

Maintained class size reduction;

Maintained safe and diciplined schools.

Additionally, last year the State rated ten Tustin schools as 10 and all others above average when compared to demographically similar schools. Also, the District had the second most California Distinguished Schools in the County.

These improvements that were made during my tenure have not only benefitted the students of our district, but have bolstered the value of our community and furthered the reputation of our schools as outstanding in our state.

The best predictor of future success is past successes. I have an eight-year track record of improving our schools. Since being elected in 1996, I have dedicated myself to improving student achievement, providing leadership and ensuring Tustin schools are recognized as outstanding.