Why the Board of Education?

By Mark C. Anderson

Having been a student myself for many years, as we all have, likewise has given me some insight to the workings of schools. I have been exposed to both public and private education methods. This offers additional experience to help with the myriad of concerns and choices facing students and parents. Regardless as to whether a child is being taught in a public school, a private school, or at home, I think any child deserves the support of the community.

I am not arrogant enough to think that I have all the answers. I know that I will have a steep learning curve myself when I step into this role as representative for the largest district on the Board of Education. Nonetheless, I do believe that we, as a community, must recognize that our children are the most valuable resource we have today, and we need to invest in their tomorrow. That investment cannot be based on the current political wind, but rather on the belief that our children are the future. They deserve the opportunity to learn in an environment that supports them and their teachers.

I think the San Diego County Board of Education can be, and must be, a catalyst for change. I want the Board to take on the role of setting the example for the individual school districts in regards to enhancing the learning process for the students. When everyone complains about lack of funding, I want to know how one of the largest economies in the world (if California was its own country) cannot maintain a balanced perspective on helping its children get through school.

There are no easy answers for the budget crisis, but there are no shortcuts for education, either. If we allow the governor and legislators to balance the budget on the backs of our children, we diminish the future - of ourselves, our children, and our state. Working together, we can make the San Diego County educational process a model for the state and the nation and one in which all our communities will take pride.

VOTE FOR MARK C. ANDERSON San Diego County Board of Education