League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Santa Clara County, CA November 7, 2006 Election
	Jane Howard Answers Questions Candidate for Member; Santa Clara County Board of Education; Trustee Area 7

The questions were prepared by the Leagues of Women Voters of Santa Clara County and asked of all candidates for this office.
Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

Questions & Answers

1. What experience and training would you bring to this office?

Having been appointed to the County Board of Education in May 2005, I have the practical experience which is invaluable in serving as a contributing member of this board. My service as a board trustee on the Gilroy Unified School District Board of Trustees provides me with the background and understanding of the role of a board member and also a working knowledge of the educational system in this state. In addition, I believe my experience as a business owner brings a level of accountability I bring to this board in decision making. Finally, the broad based community activities I am involved in offer a network of opportunities to bring others from outside the education field to partner with and support educational programs.

2. What changes, if any, would you recommend in the County's special education programs?

I support working closely with local districts to identify programs that will reduce encroachment of general fund dollars. I encourage local districts to utilize the special education programs provided by the well-trained staff at the County Office of Education. In addition, I support pursuing grants from the state and federal government to provide additional funding of services for students with special needs.

3. What should be the role of the County Board of Education with regard to charter schools?

The role of the County Board of Education according to California Education Code is to review charter school petitions and approve the creation of them when it is determined the nine criteria detailed in the law are met. I am very supportive of charter schools in that they offer an alterntive for parents in choosing a school which best meets the needs of their children. The County Board of Education's role is also to monitor existing schools to ensure learning is occurring and the criteria continue to be met.

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Responses to questions asked of each candidate are reproduced as submitted to the League.  Candidates' responses are not edited or corrected by the League.

Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

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Created from information supplied by the candidate: November 5, 2006 18:11
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