Motivation and Key Issues

By Karin M. Freeman

What factors motivated me to seek a position on the School Board? What do you consider to be the major issues facing your school district?

Initially, I became involved in the school district to make a difference for my own two children. Like many, I began at our local elementary school as a classroom volunteer. Soon I found myself active in PTA and eventually served two terms as PTA President. My commitment and dedication to the students led me to a position on the Yorba Linda School District (K-8) Board of Education.

A merger between Yorba Linda School District and Placentia Unified occurred, and I was selected to become one of the board members of the blended district. Since then, my involvement has greatly expanded to encompass committees, boards, and other roles spread over local, county, and state levels.

Just like any other parent, I have always wanted the best for children when it comes to education. Whether it was the smaller K-8 district, the larger unified district, or the North Orange County ROP stretching over 5 schools districts, I have wanted modern schools, strong educational programs, safe campuses, and quality teachers. I will always work hard to set high goals and strive to see the realization of those goals. I firmly believe that all students throughout the district should be considered as decisions are made. Their future is dependent on what actions we take as a board.

What do you consider to be the major issues facing your school district?

Education always has new problems to solve, new challenges to face. Currently, two issues are receiving major focus: The new state funding formula and the integration of Common Core state standards.

For more than a decade, PYLUSD has been experiencing cuts in state funding. The challenge has been to protect and expand educational opportunities. Transition to the new funding formula is underway. The new Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) intends to bring additional money to our district, but it will occur over a prolonged timeline. In the meanwhile, we still need to maintain and strengthen the fundamentals of education as well as provide interventions and differentiated instruction to students who are in need of additional assistance in order to perform to the best of their ability. We have recently approved the first Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP) which will guide us in our efforts. The district continues to monitor the latest developments in the new system and any permanent changes that emerge.

The monumental shift to Common Core state standards is in its second year of rollout. Part of the challenge is keeping the communications going strong for all involved: parents, district staff, and the community as a whole. Staff development continues. A watchful eye remains focused on the eventual accountability piece, namely any test (Smarter Balance) that is used to measure success.