League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Los Angeles County, CA November 4, 2014 Election
	Rita Topalian Answers Questions Candidate for Member of the State Assembly; District 57

The questions were prepared by the League of Women Voters of California Education Fund and asked of all candidates for this office.
Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

Questions & Answers

1. How would you prioritize the fiscal choices the Legislature must make to align the state’s income and spending?

Our communities thrive when we know we are safe; this is very important.

We can get jobs if they are in our State, and not another; this is very important.

We can educate a child when the proper freedoms with controls, and policies are in place; this is very important.

Prioritizing takes wisdom, and sense-making. I can do this.

3. California high school students rank lower than many states in student performance. What do you see as the ongoing role of the Legislature in addressing this problem?

We must allow for a system that recognizes the uniqueness of every child. As a person who came to this country as a child not speaking English, and afraid, I know first hand the impact that a dedicated, passionate teacher can have (until law school, I attended public schools, and so did my children). We must remove hurdles and put into place tools and strategies that let excellent teachers do their jobs. As a legislator my job will be to make certain that education policy makes sense for the students. Good, faithful, passionate teachers and parents know what is needed to ignite and encourage the pure curiosity of a child.

4. What other major issues do you think the Legislature must address? What are your own priorities?

Californians want the state returned to its greatness. My major issues are the major issues of the People: the economy (practical things like jobs so people can have money for paying the mortgage or rent, gas, and school) , education for our youngest citizens, protecting what all Californians have worked so hard for (including protecting Prop 13 - The People's Initiative).

Our Economy, Our Jobs, the Education for Our Children, Our District and State.

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Responses to questions asked of each candidate are reproduced as submitted to the League.  Candidates' statements are presented as submitted. References to opponents are not permitted.

Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

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Created from information supplied by the candidate: October 2, 2014 14:36
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