Candidate for
Governing Board Member; Irvine Unified School District

As a volunteer in Irvine's schools for fourteen years and the parent of four children, all with diverse educational needs and goals, I feel I know enough about our school district to contribute and make a difference as a school board member. I have had a variety of experiences in all grade levels and in most areas of education. I have worked to maintain Irvine's high standards for neighborhood schools and district facilities as a member of IUSD's Facilities Committee.

I am a constructive, independent thinker and have the ability to bring people of diverse opinions together. If elected to the school board, I will continue to be a strong advocate for children and to lobby Sacramento for equalization and "discretionary" money. Our school district is going to have to make some tough decisions in the next few years unless we receive these ongoing revenue sources. All of these decisions need to be made by board members whose main motivation is "doing the right thing for students".

I plan to visit schools and talk with parents and staff, to get a handle on problems or concerns as they arise. I am committed to developing the potential of each and every student in our ever increasingly complex society. I will work hard to protect Irvine's well-rounded program of basic and advanced skills, music, art, science, technology and athletics. Attracting and retaining top quality staff will maintain strong programs for students at all grades and ability levels.

Last, but not least, we have faced some devastating times this past school year. Due to unexpected money from the state, along with strong corporate and community support, we are able to continue providing the kind of education that Irvine expects for the coming year. As a PTA Council leader with accounting experience in small businesses as well as a large corporation, I am comfortable reading financial statements and asking pertinent questions. We must have conservative fiscal management and increase community input on district budget and policy matters! We never again want to face massive layoff notices and a reduction of our educational excellence.