Why am I running for School Board in the RJUHSD?

By Paige K. Stauss

In the past two years, social issues have dominated 17 school board meetings. Last year, test scores in 3 of 4 schools decreased. That is why I'm a candidate.

What is the role of a school board member? Primarily, that job is one of management. RJUHSD is one of the largest employers in Placer County. The school board should spend its time looking at the budget, addressing the facilities issues, working to get the bond passed, studying ways to raise test scores. The board should support the relationship between the student and the teacher. The board should be establishing a vision--setting goals with a plan on how to reach those goals. Too much money and too many district resources have been wasted responding to social issues and should have been spent on education (over $50,000 and over 500 staff hours). Why am I the right candidate?

For 15 years, I've been a dedicated and efficient volunteer for youth, devoting the majority of my time to bettering education. I raised well over a quarter of million dollars for schools on programs under my leadership, chairing the Eureka Schools Foundation auction, and building a $100,000 much-needed shade pavilion shared by two elementary schools. I participated on committees at elementary, middle and high school--budget, high achiever, principal selection, Curriculum Instruction Team, and Site Council. I worked on the high school accreditation process. I led the Parent Teacher Club three years, and chaired the Sober Grad Night committee in 2004. Plus, we've raised four teenagers! I understand the needs.

I was educated at UC Berkeley, earned a BS, Accounting, 1977, and a Masters in Business, Finance, 1981. I serve on the South Placer Board of American Cancer Society, am active in National Charity League and have been happily and gratefully married to my husband, Eric, for 23 years. I have the time, energy, knowledge and experience to lead this district. Remember, the quality of education today reflects our student's opportunities for tomorrow--your School Board representation really does matter. Let's return the focus to education.

Please vote for me November 2.