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Orange County, CA November 7, 2006 Election
Smart Voter Political Philosophy for Judith Ann "Judy" Ahrens

Candidate for
Board Member; Westminster School District

[photo]
This information is provided by the candidate

When you elected me to the Westminster School District, I pledged to support proven "Back-To-Basics" curriculum while maintaining sound fiscal policies. These four years I've worked alongside teachers and parents to keep that pledge.

I've helped lead our schools to state and national recognition with test scores improving each year. Last year our District was honored with a National Blue Ribbon school, two California Distinguished Schools, three Title 1 Achieving Schools, and the Golden Bell Award. Our achievement is a tribute to first-rate teachers, involved parents, and superior leadership.

Still, there are tough challenges and work ahead for us.

When you re-elect me to the Westminster School Board, I will continue to:

Support A "Back-To-Basics" Curriculum

Phonics-based reading programs and a strong foundation in math without the need for calculators are essential if our children want to succeed in advanced subjects and our world.

I was instrumental in forming a diverse committee from our community to research the benefits of school choice and will support their recommendation that our district work towards establishing a Fundamental School.

Ensure A Safe Learning Environment For All Students and Staff

Learning can only take place in classroom environments where students and teachers feel safe and supported. I don't condone any form of discrimination. Consequences for unrespectful and unsafe behavior must be clearly articulated and enforced to maintain classroom stability.

Emphasize The Need For Instilling Patriotism

Students should leave the district with adequate knowledge of the values and workings of a constitutional democracy. Veterans should be invited to share their stories with students and discuss love for one's country. Students should say the pledge of allegiance and connect it with something, not just rote words.

I sponsored the "Memorial Day Remembrance" resolution and have ensured school sites promote patriotic holidays on their campus signs. All of this creates a sense of belonging to our amazing country.

Empower Parents In The Decision-Making Process

Our board must find ways to make it easier for parents to stay informed so they can voice their opinion on important matters like textbook selection, smaller classrooms and music programs.

I would like to see our board offer two meetings a month so more time can be allowed for discussion on issues. The second meeting could rotate among the school sites.

I would like our board meetings to be available for audio podcast on our district website so parents can listen to past meetings on their computer and email their comments.

I would like to televise our board meetings on public access so parents can watch from home. This will assure trustee accontability.

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Please visit my website at http://www.VoteJudy.com for videos, news clippings, and more!

HB Video Production (http://www.HBvideoproduction.com) founded by my son produced a documentary about our district's victory during a policy debate with Sacramento. Request the DVD by visiting my website.


JUDITH (JUDY) ANN AHRENS

EIGHTH on the ballot, FIRST in public education!

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Created from information supplied by the candidate: September 18, 2006 10:01
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