Greetings Neighbors!

By Arda Clark

Extended biography and statement of qualifications.

My two sons Spenser and Marlowe are both graduates of Redondo Union High School. Over the years I have observed first-hand some of the challenges faced by educators as they work to demand the best from our students. They are continuously being asked to do more with less. Standards are increasing and our students and staff are rising to the occasion, but they are often hampered by severe budget cuts. While I understand that problems caused with the economic downturn on the State and National level cause us to have to make difficult choices, I firmly believe that we cannot make cuts that are detrimental to our children and their future. I will work with my colleagues on the Board to ensure that our scarce education dollars are managed in a way that supports our students and staff.

As a long-time supporter of PTA, I know the importance of creating and maintaining a welcoming environment for families. Our students need the love, encouragement and involvement from their parents and the community and as a school board member, I will work to build upon the great relationships that we have here in the District.

Some of you may know that I am a Realtor here in Redondo Beach. My husband and I have established wonderful relationships with the business community and have reputations for working well with those we represent. It's important to me that the work I do for a living have a positive impact on my community as well. With my business background comes a solid understanding of budgets and how to balance them--even with the complicated nature of California's school finance system, I am confident that I have the skillset to gather the necessary information and use it in collaborating with my Board colleagues to make good decisions on behalf of our students.

I look forward to speaking with you over the coming weeks and I hope you will support me by casting your mail-in ballot for me, Arda Clark for Redondo Beach School Board.

P.S. Don't forget to mail your ballot in time to get to the Redondo City Clerk's office on March 8, 2011. You can also walk your ballot in until 8:00 pm on March 8th.