Candidate for
Board Member; Tustin Unified School District

When my wife and I married 13 years ago, we moved to Tustin because this is where we wanted to start our family. We have lived in Tustin Ranch since 1989. Our children have thrived in Tustin's Schools, with our son in GATE and our daughter bringing home numerous science and invention awards. I eagerly read the published standardized test results each year, because they affirm that we made the right choice when we decided to raise our children here. Still, there is much room for improvement, and I want to participate in the upcoming opportunities and decisions that will further promote TUSD's academic excellence.

As a parent, homeowner and taxpayer, I have a strong interest in our public schools. I have worked hard to raise money for and improve the facilities at TUSD schools. I want to ensure that every student in the district enjoys the finest education possible, recognizing that good schools also benefit all homeowners with increased property values.

As your board member, I will:

• Emphasize the basics: reading with phonics, spelling, math and writing;
• Make certain that any program adopted by the District is a research-based, proven program;
• Make certain the potential bond money is spent efficiently and appropriately;
• Improve the facilities at our older schools;
• Promote technology that enhances student learning;
• Work to improve test scores at all the schools;
• Fight to keep control of the schools local and oppose federal intrusion;
• Enforce strict disciplinary policies;
• Prepare students for the state-mandated high school exit exam;
• Expand college preparatory options in our high schools;
• Use my 21 years of business experience to insure our $120 million budget is managed conservatively;
• While supporting standardized tests as a means to monitor the quality of our schools, work to eliminate redundant, unproductive testing that takes away from classroom time;
• Work to make certain the new high school and West Irvine schools are built on time and within budget.