Candidate for
Board Member; Mount Diablo Unified School District

I am honored to be a Member of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District Board of Education + having been appointed after former Board Member Bill Leal passed away.

In my six months on the Board, I have worked hard to improve our schools so our children can get the quality education they deserve. I voted to restore the Fourth Grade Music Program, Middle School "A" Period and Middle/High School Librarians back to 100% service.

So that I could better understand the needs of our students, I have visited every school in the District (50 schools) and spent over 300 hours participating in school activities, not counting activities for my own children who are also Mt. Diablo students.

Here's what I have learned:

Throwing more money at a problem isn't always the answer. Every school program must be results-oriented, student-benefiting, and must not waste taxpayer dollars.

We must identify troubled youth early and intervene when necessary. Keeping our students safe from the influence of drugs and gangs should be a top priority.

Ensuring students can read, write and speak English before graduating from high school is very important. How else can we give our children the tools they need for a successful life?

To attract and retain the best and brightest teachers, the District must strive to provide competitive salaries, an attractive work environment, and better training.

We must prepare our children to be successful, thinking adults by offering them the best core curriculum, college preparation, vocational training, career integrated academics, special education, and alternative education possible.

I don't have all the answers, but I am a hard-worker, a good listener and will dedicate my term as your school board representative to finding smart solutions to problems. I would be honored to have your vote on November 7th. Thank you.

Paul