Candidate for
Board Member; Cypress School District

Thank you for taking the time to view my candidate information.

I am a small business owner in Cypress and have lived in Cypress for 28 years. As a longtime community volunteer, I am currently serving as the Chairperson for the Cypress Children's Advocacy Council. I believe a fresh, objective approach is needed on the Cypress School Board.

My top priority is the children attending Cypress Schools. We must continue to provide a quality education for our students, while ensuring a safe environment.

Given California's current financial situation, it will be more difficult over the next few years to sustain the high level of excellent educational opportunities we now provide, if we maintain the status quo. I believe it's time for new ideas to ensure a fiscally sound District. There are many creative approaches for these financial challenges that I do not see being pursued. It is critical that the Board provide for long-term financial security. With the numerous unfunded mandates required by the State and Federal governments, plus the encroachment of special education, the Board and the Administration need to become proactive in searching for new revenue sources. There are a number of different ways to accomplish this with the dedication of time and energy. I am prepared to devote the time and energy necessary to develop innovative financial solutions so we can continue to provide an excellent education for our students, while retaining outstanding teachers and staff.

One of my first tasks would be to energize communication between Board Members, teachers and staff, as well as between the community and the District. Good communication will ensure all sides are heard and all ideas are considered.

I have over 10 years of effective relationships with our local, state and federal elected officials. I believe in networking and forging relationships for mutual benefit. If we work together and use everyone's expertise we can find innovative approaches to dealing with the many challenges ahead.

Please contact me directly with and questions or concerns. I would like to hear your thoughts. I can be reached via e-mail at Linda-Keenan@earthlink.net.