Why I am running

By Dennis P. McBride

Dear Parents and Community,

It has been an honor to have served on the Redwood City School District Board for the past twelve years. I want to continue to make a difference in our children's lives. I am more energized and passionate today than I was twelve years ago regarding our students, staff, and community.

I believe that if we want to create a better society we must improve the lives of children. If we have children who are under-educated they will be doomed economically. Do we want citizens who are educated and successful or do we want citizens who need government assistance or possibly end up in prison? The surest way out of poverty is getting a good education.

With over 35 years of experience of volunteer work mentoring or advocating for students, it is very rewarding to make a difference in students' lives. During the school year I visit every classroom in the District, meeting students and staff. We have caring professionals who are committed to our students' success. I attend student events and am inspired by what our talented teachers are doing

I have the knowledge about the intricacies of the school district. I understand curriculum and what our students need to thrive. I know how to ensure we are spending our money as efficiently as possible, while delivering a quality education. I care deeply about our students' success.

For the majority of the last twelve years the Redwood City School District has been significantly underfunded by the state. We never used this as an excuse to not have goals to improve our students' educational experience. During this period of budget cuts we were one of only a few districts in the state that did not reduce salaries of our staff or have furlough days. We have developed a culture of transparency and integrity.

I am really proud to report that we have dramatically improved student achievement. As one example, this past April we had reclassification ceremonies to honor 749 students who are now English Language Proficient. This is a significant increase in the number of English Language Proficient students.

We have increased the number of students able to attend summer school. In addition, we increased the length of the day and the number of days of school.

To make sure our students are competitive in the 21st Century, we have reduced the number of students per computer from 8:1 to 3:1. We think we can achieve 1:1 in the near future.

We have worked really hard to find and partner with funders to provide money for programs that we know will benefit our students. The Sobrato Early Academic Language program funded by the Sobrato Foundation has significantly increased student achievement. A $1 million grant from Startup:Education has allowed us to invest in infrastructure, computers, and staff development at Hoover and Taft Schools, Our schools have received numerous local, county, and state awards for innovative practices.

We have caring professionals that are committed to our students' success.

What is so exciting is that the state has finally started to increase our funding. I have the experience to make sure the money is spent to benefit the most students. I have demonstrated that I will listen to everyone with an open mind; I always do what is right for our students and staff. My philosophy is really simple: do what is best for our students and staff and always ask myself, "Will this program prepare our students for high school, college, and life?"

I like to think that our mission is more than just the education of students. We are in the life changing business.

I respectfully ask you to vote for me so I can continue to improve our schools.

Thank you,

Dennis P. McBride