League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Santa Clara County, CA November 4, 2008 Election
	Gary Rummelhoff Answers Questions Candidate for Member; Santa Clara County Board of Education; Trustee Area 4

The questions were prepared by the Leagues of Women Voters of Santa Clara County and asked of all candidates for this office.
Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

Questions & Answers

1. What experience and training would you bring to this office?

I bring 12 years of active school board and education experience. I served eight years on the San Jose Unified Board, two years as President of the Board. I have completed one four-year term on the County School Board, one year as President. I have been active in regional and statewide educational efforts, serving as President of the Santa Clara County School Board Association and as delegate and committee chair (Urban Schools) with the California School Board Association.

2. What changes, if any, would you recommend in the County's special education programs?

To achieve goal one, increasing student proficiency and high school passing rates for special education students, we must establish clear administrative plans and objectives for student achievement, provide added support to teachers and improve school facilities. The COE must also work more cooperatively with local districts to target programs that reduce encroachment on the general funds. With inadequate funding, local districts are heavily burdened and need help from the well-trained staff of the COE.

3. What should be the role of the County Board of Education with regard to charter schools?

The County Board of Education (CBE) plays two critical roles with regard to charter schools. First, the CBE is an impartial board of appeal in reviewing petitions from charter schools that have been denied by local school districts. Second, the CBE is the chartering authority for programs that serve the entire county. In both roles, if the CBE approves a petition by a charter school, the Board must oversee the charter school's performance and renew the program, if appropriate.

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Responses to questions asked of each candidate are reproduced as submitted to the League.  Candidates' responses are not edited or corrected by the League.

Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

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Created from information supplied by the candidate: October 29, 2008 21:02
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