Three Priorities

By Richard Lavin

Cut waste, increase enrollment, preserve vocational education

In addition, I hope to enhance revenues by increasing our enrollment. We need to reach out to those families who are not sending their children to Rim Unified, and to address their concerns. I think we should engage with our support organizations to promote and publicize our program. Every time I visit a campus, I'm inspired by the level of teaching and student achievement I observe. I wish more people had the opportunity to witness this. By encouraging community members to get involved on our campuses, we create advocates for our schools. I also think we can create partnerships with families that home school to provide selected classes, resources, and activities that they are presently lacking.

I am a great fan of vocational education. For years, we have condescended to those students who are not college bound and I think that is a mistake. Today, colleges have priced themselves beyond the reach of many promising candidates while ignoring their vocational needs. A good diesel mechanic can make six figures. How many successful contractors started in carpentry shop? We have a strong Regional Occupation Program and that can be a powerful draw for students who are not currently enrolled in our schools.