Candidate for
Governing Board Member; Torrance Unified School District

Funding. The funding issue in our district encompasses many different areas. Working within our shrinking budget is always a challenge. I will be very conscientious about any cuts that are brought to the table. I also feel we must continue the fight to increase funding with the ADA equalization in California. I will support the action of the district to pursue the additional funding that Torrance should receive. We also have a fast approaching facilities fund issue. The replacement of the temporary buildings at Hull Middle School by 2007 is a major challenge. I am open to dialogue regarding another bond and/or restructuring of our current bond as well as searching for other income sources.

Class Size Increases. I will fight hard to keep our class sizes smaller in the elementary schools, especially the 20:1 in K-3, and to reduce the class sizes in the middle and high school core subject areas.

Staff Retention. You can not have good schools without good teachers and administrators. We need to retain our qualified teachers and administrators in OUR district. I feel not only do we need to give our teachers competitive pay but we must give our teachers the materials and support needed to establish a sound learning environment for our students. I will listen to the concerns and ideas of the teachers.