Making A Difference for Education

By Lindann M (England) McPheeters

Having worked for over 25 years as a teacher and an administrator, I know that the business of education is to equip student.

Having worked for over 25 years as a teacher and an administrator, I know that the business of education is to equip student. The focus should not be on the teachers, the admnistrator or the school board. The focus must be on the students in the classroom.

I started out as a teacher's aide while working my way though college, and have since taught elementary school, and junior & senior high, as well as taking some time off to raise my two children. I have worked in school administration as well as tutoring and consulting for students who need one-on-one schooling.

With my 25 years experience, I believe the biggest challenges facing education today are English Language Proficiency, and budget issues combined with the growing number of students leaving our school district.

In order for a student to be successful in the classroom, he must be able to understand what the teacher and textbooks communicate. The percentage of English Language Learners in Sonoma County has increased considerably over the last few years, and it is vital that all students become proficient in English so they can also be successful in the classroom and beyond. I believe we must provide English immersion classes so students can quickly acquire the language. We must also equip teachers with phonics- based curriculum that is directed towards English Language Learners. I will seek out model programs from other districts that have been successful for non-English speaking students.

The issue of students leaving the district is very complex and real solutions have yet to be found. As a school board member I will meet with parents , business communityand the educator to hear your opinions. What do you think? Is the district to large? Too small? How do the elementary fit into the big picture? How can we stem the tide?

These two areas are having a direct effect on the district's budget. Federal and state mandates also put pressure on the budget and many people feel they are already paying enough of their tax dollars for education.

How do we work within the confines of the budget structures and still keep the money in the classroom?

I believe it is by remembering what our job is...........educating students for their futures. It is by keeping as much money in the classroom as possible while still being fiscally responsible.

I believe it can and must be done.

It takes board members who understand the educational process and its responsibility to the parents and the community. It takes board members who can see through the problems to get to the real solutions. It takes someone with experience.

I have lived in Sonoma County and worked as a teacher and administrator since 1979.

With your help I look forward to bringing my knowledge and experience to the school board.

Vote for Lindann McPheeters for Santa Rosa City School board.