Why You Should Vote for Me

By Steven R. Krause

Some background on why I ran in the past and why I'm running again. You'll learn more about me and how I make decisions.

Other signs of greatness are perhaps less tangible. One could mention winning sports teams and other after school programs that attract young people and motivate them to maintain good grades so that they can continue to participate. Our high school just received a 6-year accreditation and the report's main recommendation was: keep it up!

Public education in our valley and the entire state faces many challenges, not the least of which are financial. Declining enrollment is a reality in about 40% of the state's districts. Times change and populations shift. The best way to attract people into the district is to provide an outstanding education. I think we do that. In America, people have freedom of choice and the right to send their children to other schools. I respect that right. And the best way to compete is with excellence.

We have always had a balanced budget. If we don't we are taken over by the state.

I have a long history of community service going back over 20 years. I have twice been a School Site Council president. As a volunteer, I've been a Scout leader, SCAP educator, and served on numerous District advisory committees. Both my children attended SLVUSD schools from Kindergarten through graduation from high school.

As a board member, I've always made decisions based on common sense and doing the right thing. At times voters may have a difficult time understanding some board decisions. State laws, for example, prohibit ANY discussion of or comment on personnel issues. Employees have a fundamental right to privacy. I took an oath to obey the law and I respect privacy as a fundamental concept in a free society. Therefore, some decisions a board member makes cannot be commented on, let alone defended. The buck stops here, so to speak. I accept that as a fact of life. Life is not always fair. All I can do is keep making decisions based on what I think is right and best for the district today, and in the future.

I seek re-election because I want to be there and add my grass roots parent perspective. I'm also a teacher in a neighboring district. I know schools. I know school culture. I am proud to serve my community as a school board member.