League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Santa Clara County, CA November 7, 2006 Election
	Kim Mesa Answers Questions Candidate for Board Member; Alum Rock Union School District

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. How would you determine that the schools are using federal, state and local funds wisely and fairly and how would you report your findings to the community?

The key to wisely using funds is to establish district-wide goals and objectives and align our budget to support them. Goals help set the direction for the school district and identify priorities. Goals also provide accountability throughout the district. Achievement toward goals can be measured, reported on, and used in evaluating programs, the Superintendent, and district employees. The district should annually report on their progress toward reaching stated goals and objectives at a public meeting. The Board should use the report to review, revise and establish new goals for the future.

2. Are the schools offering instruction appropriate to the diverse educational abilities of all the students?

Alum Rock staff regularly assesses student progress toward state standards and uses the information to target curriculum and instruction to the needs of each student. Intervention programs are offered district-wide for those students who need additional assistance,instruction and support. Opportunities for students who are academically advanced are available through the Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) program. The district also provides support to English Language Learners, providing additional instruction and support to insure oral and written language development. Alum Rock continues to provide music through multiple programs including: Elementary Instrumental Instruction, Middle School Band, District Jazz Band, and a District Mariachi Band. While there is always room for improvement, the district works very hard to help all students achieve academic success and reach their individual potential. Our continuous rise in academic achievement over the last five years is a testament to the dedication of Alum Rock's staff and the hard work of all district students.

3. Where do you want the District to be five years from now? What steps should the District take to get there?

I know that Alum Rock will become a High Achieving School District. It is by working together as a school district and community that we have made progress toward excellence in our schools. There is more to be done, and I know that with thoughtful governance and a well-trained Board Alum Rock will continue to make progress toward that goal. The district needs to continue to focus on curriculum and instruction, while also providing flexibility in our programs to develop best practices for teaching and learning. Highly qualified and dedicated teachers, along with involving students in their own academic success, will also move the district forward. Increased parent involvement is also very important to support our children on their road to success. We all need to work together to ensure that all Alum Rock students get the quality of education they will need to become successful adults in a constantly changing world.

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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 13, 2006 09:09
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