Political Philosophy for Phyllis L. Metcalfe

Candidate for
Governing Board Member; Marin Community College District

BALLOT STATEMENT:

During my tenure on the College Board, I have strongly supported and will continue to emphasize these special priorities:

QUALITY EDUCATION. Our mission is simple: to educate young adults to succeed in life; to help people re-enter the work force; to provide essential vocational and technical training; to offer special education programs for other adults in Marin County.

SERVING COMMUNITY NEEDS. Our Community College - yours and mine - has an obligation to serve the community in many ways. Especially by providing programs which can: help meet the needs of specific groups such as older adults and disabled people; improve the economic climate with short courses in business and technology skills; add to the cultural life in Marin with performing arts presentations, lectures and exhibits.

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY. It is essential that our limited resources be used in the most effective way to serve the educational needs of adults in our county. There must be an ongoing effort to increase income and reduce costs. Fiscal prudence cannot be ignored - it is the key to survival.

As a concerned and active community member. I am experienced and qualified to continue to serve our College and community.

PHYLLIS METCALFE... MAKING A DIFFERENCE AT COLLEGE OF MARIN AND IN OUR COMMUNITY

Phyllis Metcalfe's dedication to equal opportunity for people in our society was first apparent back in the 1960's, when she was among the first of the students who actively worked in the civil rights movement. She strongly believes that education is the key to economic and social equality. For over 35 years, her tireless efforts on behalf of the various aspects of education and job training have enabled people, including those with disabilities, to achieve the skills needed to succeed.

Phyllis' presence on the college board has and will continue to provide educational opportunities for those who may never have had a chance for higher education or career training. After studying fundraising principles and dynamics, she developed COM's first annual giving campaign at a time when public community colleges in California only raised funds for scholarships.

The job-training program for low-income women Phyllis developed an administered with now Senator Barbara Boxer included childcare and transportation for participants. The program's components were broader then either the CETA and JTPA programs that were later developed by the federal government.

Phyllis Metcalfe's ongoing support for those with disabilities and her fervor for finding ways to provide educational opportunities for all people show her deep commitment to both our college and community.