Candidate for
Board Member; Huntington Beach Union High School District

Role of the Governing Board of Trustees

Public Education is the cornerstone of a representative democracy. The local school board is the critical link between the public and the local schools. The appointed or elected board members have ONE priority: look out for the best interests of the students. Board members must be familiar with the values of their community and should know what the community expects the students to know and be able to do upon high school graduation.

Board members must ensure that the students get the best education for the tax dollars spent. Classroom teachers and support staff must have the tools they need to engage the students in the learning process. Every decision must answer this question: What services are we providing to what students at what costs that results in what benefits?

Board members must be able to read and interpret data to make informed decisions. Trustees must be active listeners when listening to all of the stakeholders. They must have an open mind on ALL issues that come before the board. Board members must be able to think critically and be willing to compromise when necessary. They must make every effort to stay current with technology and educational reforms. Members of the board must have the time necessary to make this commitment to their community. Board members must be willing to be the "boots on the ground" and not just rely on staff reports.

I am fiscally very conservative and believe that local control is the best way to ensure that the students are getting what is best for them. On social issues, I am much more moderate and often liberal. I consider myself to be politically purple.

Trustees must be able to leave their personal politics at the door and do what is best for the students. It is all about the students.