Candidate for
Board Member; Desert Sands Unified School District

During my 15 years on the DSUSD board, student enrollment increased from 14,400 to 28,000. We now have 32 schools. My goals have included: Provide good facilities, hire and retain highly qualified employees, inspire and improve student achievement, and anticipate future educational needs. DSUSD is a diverse, dynamic "lighthouse" district, requiring stable board commitment and experience, for continued success in meeting complex, ever-changing demands. I seek re-election and hope to continue my commitment to excellence for Desert Sands.

Success for every student is my priority. Students are entrusted to us for support, inspiration, and development. All students are gifted; some need help in finding their way, and all need safe, secure, positive school environments. In meeting growth demands, we must not sacrifice individuality and creativity. Employees must feel appreciated and motivated, and we must never rest on our past achievements.

California funds education on an annual basis via the Governor's Budget, and funding is never guaranteed from year to year. For that reason alone, in addition to sound business management practices, it is vital that DSUSD maintain strong financial stability and a minimum of a 3% reserve.

Technology needs to be continually upgraded in the schools, and each child should have the best educational experience we can provide. Teachers need to have access to excellent resources, to support their classrooms.

Assessment testing and standards-based education have helped us establish a baseline for achievement. That's important in order to ensure quality education at all schools. Additionally, I support the California Exit Exam as an important milestone for students to complete before graduation.

Desert Sands serves the communities of Palm Desert, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Indio, Bermuda Dunes, and part of Rancho Mirage and Coachella. Our board must cooperate with goverments of these cities, and with Riverside County officials, to develop well-planned communities that we can all be proud of.

I am honored to serve on the DSUSD Board, and I will continue to uphold the trust placed in me by the voters.