League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Santa Clara County, CA November 2, 2004 Election
	Fiona Walter Answers Questions Candidate for Board Member; Mountain View-Whisman School District

Read the answers from all candidates.

Questions & Answers

1. How would you improve test scores in low scoring schools?

In order to improve test scores, the following must occur:

• Examine teaching models used at successful similar schools to determine what is working and what is not.
• Apply lessons learned from successful schools to those that are struggling.
• Assist struggling schools when possible with additional resources.
• Use test data in conjunction with technology to more efficiently alert staff to children in need of intervention, thereby providing timely assistance for at-risk students.
• Ensure that children attend preschool before kindergarten. Children who have had classroom experience prior to kindergarten are better prepared mentally and socially for school.

2. Do you have specific ideas regarding ways to make public education a priority among all parents throughout the district?

Communicating the benefits of strong public schools to all parents will lead directly to support of those schools and to making public education a priority. Forums and community outreach programs are two possible avenues through which this can be accomplished. The benefits of public education are numerous and affect all members of the community. Local schools gain strength from their community and give back to that community though good citizenship, dedication to home neighborhoods, public service projects, and much more. Home values increase when public schools succeed. Well-educated children are an asset to the community today and become tomorrow's leaders.

3. Are there particular qualities and/or specific types of experience that you feel are critical for the new Superintendent to possess?

The new superintendent must communicate effectively with all members of our community, including teachers, staff, parents, and local businesses. This person should have experience at many levels: parent, teacher, principal, administrator. They must understand the curriculum and standards necessary to ensure the academic success of 4,300 K-8 students. They must also recognize our district's diversity and provide creative ways to leverage this asset while still successfully educating every child. Finally, this person must be committed to our district for an extended period of time. Consistent leadership at the superintendent position is paramount in achieving academic success for all students.