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The questions were prepared by the League of Women Voters of Los Angeles and asked of all candidates for this office.
See below for questions on
Most Important Issue,
Constituency vs. District,
Management/Budget Experience,
Health Care Costs,
Standardized Testing
Click on a name for candidate information. See also more information about this contest.
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1. What is the single most important issue facing LAUSD today? As a Board Member, what would you do to deal with it?
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Answer from Jeneen Robinson:
The most important issue facing LAUSD today is access to quality teaching and learning environments. As a Board Member, I would continue the work of the District and its labor partners to develop a meaningful evaluation system for our teachers and learning communities. We should work to recruit, retain and reward the most talented workforce in this nation so that our children are exposed to a world-class education.
Answer from Kate Anderson:
Los Angeles schools were once the envy of the nation; everyone felt good sending their kid to public school. It is not that way now but it can be that way again. Every child deserves an terrific teacher and a strong learning community and right now, LAUSD does not do nearly enough to ensure either. Our current system of evaluating and supporting teachers is broken and we have far too much bureaucratic control and not enough local control. I would change both. I would also use the skills and experience I learned on the Oversight Committee in Congress to make sure that our money is being spent well and that every dollar possible is making it to the classroom.
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2. How would you prioritize your local constituency in overseeing LAUSD management, setting District policy, and day-to-day decision-making?
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Answer from Jeneen Robinson:
The job of a board member is to listen and lead a multi-layer participatory process of engaging families, schools and communities in our education system. I have been a liaison between schools and community for this district. I will continue to be accessible to my constituency while maintaining a rapport with the district at large.
Answer from Kate Anderson:
I believe that the job of a school board member is to set policy and provide constituent services to stakeholders in the district. I do not believe that board members should, as a general matter, be involved in the day-to-day decision-making of the district.
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3. What experience in general management, fiscal management, and budgetary oversight would you bring to the job of Board Member?
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Answer from Jeneen Robinson:
As former NAACP National ACT-SO Director I managed a $1.2 million budget with fiscal responsibility and integrity; and directed 200 programs nationwide that gave education enrichment opportunities to over 10,000 students. This is the type of leadership and experience needed for the complexities of this district that I possess.
Answer from Kate Anderson:
I have experience both in the private sector and in government. Specifically, I worked for Congressman Henry Waxman on the Government Reform and Oversight Committee conducting oversight of the executive branch. This experience will help me in ensuring that that LAUSD is spending our tax dollars efficiently.
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4. How should LAUSD deal with its rapidly increasing costs for retiree and employee health care?
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Answer from Kate Anderson:
This is a complicated and difficult issue facing not just LAUSD but the city, state, and nation. We need to be thoughtful and considered in balancing the needs of our employees with the costs involved. I would be happy to discuss the complexities and nuances of this issue with anyone; please email or call my campaign office to discuss it further.
Answer from Jeneen Robinson:
Those who serve our school system should be able to enjoy the benefits of their employment with peace of mind. I will commit to preserving the funding of retirement and employee health care while not sacrificing quality instructional programs.
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5. What part should standardized testing play in LAUSD’s educational programs?
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Answer from Jeneen Robinson:
While I don't believe standardized tests reflect the totality of student achievement, nor the best of a teacher, we unfortunately live in a world of standardization. I feel there is room to revise the culture of standardized testing and newer ways of assessing student and teacher aptitude. These should play an integral part in LAUSD education programs.
Answer from Kate Anderson:
As a parent, I am concerned about any educational program that would lead to teaching to a narrow test. I believe that arts, physical activity, and life skills that cannot necessarily be measured are essential to a good education. That said, well-designed tests that are measuring important skills are useful tools in understanding how students are progressing. In the right context, appropriate tests should play a role in an educational program.
Responses to questions asked of each candidate
are reproduced as submitted to the League.
The order of the candidates is random and changes daily. Candidates who did not respond are not listed on this page.
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League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
