Candidate for
Governing Board Member; Manhattan Beach Unified School District

Outstanding Qualifications.

I have lived in Manhattan Beach for 22 years. My husband and I are parents to a son in 10th grade at Mira Costa and a son in 8th grade at Manhattan Beach Middle School. I am a graduate of Michigan State University and a Certified Public Accountant. Before my children were born, I was a manager at Price Waterhouse, specializing in small businesses. After leaving public accounting I was the Chief Financial Officer, and served on the board, of a thriving publicly traded company. Later I worked as a business consultant. I have been active in our schools since my oldest son entered kindergarten in 1994. I served as president of Grand View Elementary School's PTA for four years. Currently, I am the treasurer of the Manhattan Beach Education Foundation. Last year, the Education Foundation raised $2.5 million for our schools from private donors.

Improve School District Finances.

My financial background and volunteer experience give me a unique, and much needed, perspective. I can readily analyze financial issues, provide effective solutions to problems and understand the importance of accountability. I have worked closely with the new administration and the PTAs to maintain important programs despite ongoing state budget cuts and have a thorough understanding of the District's finances. I have strongly supported the District's belt-tightening, and worked with the PTAs and Education Foundation to pursue sound solutions that maintain a high level of education while restoring the District to financial health. I am committed to controlling costs, but also to making sure that all children receive the education and support necessary to succeed.

Make Our Outstanding Schools Even Better.

We have outstanding schools, but must constantly be looking at ways to improve our curriculum, staff, and physical plant, while maintaining a balanced budget. Manhattan Beach schools should lead the state not only in achievement, but in the depth and diversity of our educational programs. Our school board must also work closely with our city government to enhance our joint resources and ultimately improve the quality of both entities.

Vote for Ida. I look forward to the opportunity to serve the community on the school board. I believe my experience and qualifications will help the District create schools that are the envy of the state. Thank you for your vote.