Orange County Register: Candidate Questionnaire

By Art Montez

As a 12-year member of the Centralia school board, I bring a wealth of experience and knowledge as to how the educational system works. The experience is especially critical during poor economic times as school boards have to make difficult financial decisions that may negatively impact the classroom and our employees. My community background is very broad, which allows me to be accessible, inclusive and understanding of the issues before the board.

QUESTION NO.2: The school district decided to close Knott Elementary to save money. What steps should the school board take to remain solvent, yet keep academic performance high?

I opposed the closure of Knott Elementary. There were other financial alternatives that could have been considered to reduce district costs while maintaining neighborhood schools. My priorities as a school board member will continue to be: 1) keeping schools safe and well maintained; 2) fiscal sound management, accountability and oversight; 3) providing a culture that encourages academic achievement; and 4) a work environment that equally respects all employees and their contributions.

QUESTION NO.3: A recent movement has urged linking teacher evaluations and pay raises to students' academic performance. How do you feel about this idea, and would you like to see it implemented in your district?

Changes as to how we pay and evaluate district employees requires cooperation, flexibility and understanding between board members, management and employee bargaining units. These issues need to be addressed at the bargaining table.