Candidate for
Governing Board Member; Alameda Unified School District

I am a candidate for re-election to the Alameda Board of Education because I believe in public schools, and I have the experience and the ability to make Alameda schools better.

My first priority is a safe and healthy learning environment for our students. As the President of the School Board I led the effort to develop the District's Wellness Policy and increase nutrition and physical activity standards. In addition to making sure our campuses are safe we are responsible for teaching our students to identify violence and avoid risky behavior.

A quality education means that kids are in a stable environment, with enough teachers for each class and enriching extra-curricular programs. Success in school also requires attention to diversity, to ensure that all children are ready to learn - regardless of their economic status or ethnicity.

Quality education means that kids are in a stable environment, with enough teachers for each class and a facility that is not crumbling around them. As a member of the School Board for the past 4 years I have made decisions to improve the District campuses using bond funds apprvoed by Alameda voters.

And I have asked tough questions about those expenditures because I believe that Alameda taxpayers deserve fiscal accountability from the School District. As the Board President I worked with teachers and the community to address state budget cuts and falling enrollment. It was only by working together that we successfully consolidated three schools into the new Ruby Bridges Elementary School. The highest priority for the School Board and for all Alamedans should be to work together to ensure the highest quality education for our kids in the face of changing educational mandates and budget constraints.

The Board of Education can't mandate a successful learning experience. Nor can the teachers, or the school's administrators. But if we work together, along with students and parents, can we take the often difficult steps needed restore the excellence in education that was once an essential part of the quality of life on this Island. Fortunately Alamedans are very supportive of our schools and we recognize the value of public education.

I attended Alameda schools myself. Edison, Lincoln and Alameda High schools gave me the tools I needed for a successful career in local, state and federal government. As the Senior Services Administrator in Oakland I now manage 4 senior centers serving more than 4,000 seniors.

Now my son is the 4th generation of his family to attend Alameda public schools. You should vote to re-elect me to the School Board because I will make sure that Julian and your children receive the education necessary to be a successful adult.