Ballot Statement

By Bill Carle

This is my ballot statement which will be published is the Sonoma County Voter Guide being mailed in the near future.

As you know, these are extremely difficult times. With parents, teachers and staff, we must continue to reduce costs in administration and operations but not at the expense of the classrooms. We need to assure Santa Rosa students get the best education possible.

Working together, we fought to retain small class sizes. We steadfastly resisted more than 22 students in grades K-3 where developing the building blocks, especially reading, are critical. Other local districts have up to 36% more per class.

Working together, we have championed career technical programs for students who choose work after graduation. Our programs are recognized as some of the best and most relevant in the state. We fought to retain arts, music and sports, for our students. Research has shown their value in the classroom and the impact on personal growth.

There is more to do, like consolidating districts. Sonoma County averages one district for every 1,776 students. What a waste of non-classroom resources. Surrounding counties' school districts are as much as ten times larger. We have begun working on potential district consolidations.

My efforts will continue to be focused on what is best for Santa Rosa students. I ask for you continued support and vote.