Candidate for
Board Member; Union Elementary School District

I believe that public education is the cornerstone of our democratic society. We must provide a quality education to each child that takes into account his or her individual learning styles and needs. Every child should be challenged to work to their potential and given the support they need to overcome any difficulties that they face.

Our children have the right to learn in an environment that is clean, comfortable and protected from physical danger. Additionally, this environment must be free from bullying so that each child feels safe at school. We must teach the children to have respect for each other and for their teachers so learning time can be used to the best advantage. We should embrace the diversity of our school population and make sure that each individual child knows that they are an important part of their school community.

My philosophy is that we must educate the whole child and not just "teach to the test" or focus on a narrow academic curriculum. It is important for our students to have the enriching experiences of participating in art projects, music instruction and hands on science activities.

Our schools are strong because of the community and parent support that they enjoy. I believe in having an inclusive and open governance model and in allowing the individual schools the flexibility and freedom to make as many decisions as possible.