Candidate for
Board Member; Santa Barbara High School District

Frequently Asked Questions about the Jed de Vries for School Board campaign:

Why are you running for school board?

I am running for Santa Barbara County School Board because I care about education and my community. I am committed to strengthening our public schools and preparing our students to face the challenges of the 21st century. I believe I have unique experiences and a unique perspective that will help our school board to do more for our students.

Aren't you too young to run?

No. In a world in which 18 year olds are being asked to serve their country abroad I think 18 year olds should be serving their community here at home as well.

Anyone over 18 can run for school board. What's important is not your age but what you can contribute to the school board.

Is this campaign about youth issues?

No. This campaign is about bringing a new perspective to our school board. This will strengthen our school board's ability to address all of the issues facing our students. The political process affects all of us in society and so all parts of society should be involved in the political process. It is important that young people, who will be so impacted by the outcome of the political process, become involved in addressing tomorrow's problems today.

What experience do you have that will help you serve on the school board?

Students today face a different world from students in the past. Students will be competing in a job market in which technological understanding is imperative and a higher education an important asset. Having recently graduated from Dos Pueblos High, I know what it's like to apply to colleges these days. I know what's it's like to interview for a job as a high school graduate. I know how students today rely on the internet for their studies. Furthermore, I have experience getting youth involved in politics and their community. For more about my experience and past accomplishments please visit the biography section of the SmartVoter site.

What do you propose to do, when you're on the school board, to help our school?

There are a number of issues that are important to me. I would like to see more integration of technology in the classroom, a stronger focus on college prep and greater use of community resources. Please read the position papers on this site for more details.

When is the election and who can vote?

The election is November 2nd, the same day as the presidential election. If you live within the Santa Barbara Elementary or High School District you are eligible to vote. The district encompass most of the Santa Barbara and Goleta area. Use this map (from the Santa Barbara surveyor) if you are unsure; the district is the entire colored area. Make sure to check your sample ballot as well.

What kind of name is Jedidjah de Vries? Does it mean anything? How is it pronounced? Do you have any nicknames?

My first name is Hebrew; it comes from the bible and means friend of God. The pronunciation is: yuh- dee- dyah. The last name is Dutch and means someone who comes from Vriesland - an area in Holland. But feel free to call me Jed.

How can I help the campaign?

There's a lot you can do. Click here to find out how you can help.

How can I contact the campaign?

For phone, snail mail, or e-mail contact, click here.

Do you have a website?

Absolutely. You'll find more about me and about this campaign at http://www.devries2004.org.

Are you serious about this whole campaign?

You bet.