Candidate's Forum Speach

By Jim Macfarlane

Mr. Macfarlane effectively set out his plans that would enhance the Moreland District at the League of Woman Voter's Forum held on October 12, 2004. No other candidate has such a comprehensive plan on what needs to be done with the limited recourses we will have over the next four years. It will take leadership not just District criticism to make steady progress to continued academic excellence. Here is part of his text from that night...

We have a lot at stake this election.... shrinking budgets... raised expectations from the State.... and a group of candidates with varied opinions on what the priorities should be for the district.

I want to continue our course for improved facilities.......Some don't think this is a priority. But, I want to finish our current work, we have the funding, and we need to complete a new campus for the Easterbrook Discovery School.

We need to ensure we have the safest school environment possible... and to continue to improve our test scores. Some think this just an obvious statement..... but I think parents want to ensure this is a TOP priority. We need our Deans back, and we need more counselors to help combat this issue. I want to help make this happen.

I want to also help the district strive to seek equitable education throughout our schools. Like the availability of extended kindergarten throughout our district, and not just for a few school sites.

And lastly, I want to ensure the Moreland Community, that I will make myself available to hear your concerns, and work to make the Board more accessible to YOU.

So, as you can see you have a lot of options here tonight.

I urge you to LOOK FOR the candidates you feel will take the time to hear your concerns... and most importantly, who you think will have the best plan for the district's future.

Thank you.