League of Women Voters of California
Santa Clara County, CA November 4, 2003 Election
	Andrea N. Leiderman Answers Questions Candidate for Board Member; Foothill-De Anza Community College District

The questions were prepared by the League of Women Voters of Los Altos/Mtn. View Area and asked of all candidates for this office.

Read the answers from all candidates.

Questions & Answers

1. Given the fact that budgetary restraints will continue, what programs do you support and what programs would you cut and why? Please be specific.

Community colleges are reliant on State funding. Much of the Foothill-De Anza budget (85%) is salaries and benefits. We need to fight for local control so we are not at the mercy of the State budget; we need to generate revenue locally to support our programs. I support programs which allow students to prepare to transfer to four-year colleges; job retraining; and career certifications. Our students need to be prepared for actual jobs in area industries so they can help themselves AND the economy at the same time.

2. What do you see as the role of the Board in labor negotiations?

The Board determines the level of funding available for salaries and benefits and directs the administration on strategy for negotations. The Board is the steward of public funds and must balance the needs of the faculty and employees with the needs of the students who attend our colleges and use our services. The main purpose of the FHDA is to provide the highest quality education to students. We should also provide a good work environment and strong salaries and benefits to attract and retain good faculty and employees.

3. What suggestions/ideas do you have for increasing alumni and community support for the colleges?

FHDA has a Foundation but we have never created an alumni development process. With the availability of information through the Internet, we should begin the process of creating a database of alumni -- graduates and others who have attended our schools. Many graduates attribute their success to the excellent education they received at Foothill and De Anza. We need to harness that appreciation and seek support for the next generation of students.