Candidate for
Board Member; Orinda Union School District

My name is: Jason F. Lurie

My age is: 37

My occupation is: School Volunteer/Attorney

Education and Qualifications:

Our public school system is outstanding, and that is true whether the measure is academic test scores, which consistently rank among the best in the state, or less objective but equally important ways: nurturing teachers and administrators that provide optimal learning conditions; parents that volunteer their time and give generously to our Parent's Clubs and EFO; and local businesses that sponsor and support our school programs.

It takes a community-wide commitment and a dedicated school board to maintain school excellence even in good times. But as everyone knows, these are tough times. And as everyone also knows, public schools will be challenged financially for years to come.

As the Glorietta Parent's Club legislative representative, I have seen close- up and in detail the impact of California's financial morass on our schools. It threatens the quality of our curriculum, our small class sizes, the maintenance - let alone any improvement - of our physical facilities, the availability of elective programs, and the morale of our teachers and administrators, to mention some concerns that come quickest to mind. It is the Trustees' charge to find the best means to deal with these challenges.

I am dedicated to making sure that my three young children, ages 9, 7, and 3, and all of their OUSD peers receive the same high quality education that Orinda's public schools have delivered for decades. I have always been committed to a collaborative and cooperative work style, and that is exactly the spirit I will bring to the OUSD board if elected. And I am equally committed to maintaining the district's dedication to accessibility and responsiveness. Above all, the educational interests of all of Orinda's students will always be my overriding concern.

I respectfully ask for your vote.