Candidate for
Monterey County Superintendent of Schools; Monterey County Board of Education

My name is Donna Alonzo Vaughan and I am running for Monterey County Superintendent of Schools, because I can provide a better classroom environment. I have a passion to support students, the courage to make better financial decisions in tough times and the credibility to bring people together to achieve the goals for all children in Monterey County.

I believe in:

Local Financial Control: I have and will lead from a background of economics and a respect for relationships. I have owned a business and I have made a payroll. I have 30 years in education; 25 years in Monterey County education and 18 years as a district superintendent in 2 very diverse districts. I have the courage to make better financial decisions in tough times.

I will work with districts and their stakeholders; so we are never again, a county that loses local control of one of its districts to a state takeover for finances.

I have brought a district back from the brink of just such a takeover threat. We had a 6.2 million dollar deficit with a 65 million dollar budget. Not only were we able to recover, layoffs were rescinded and within 18 months of the crisis, we once again had a positive financial certification.

Academic Accountability: I will lead from a background of academic excellence and best educational practices. I have extensive knowledge of systematic English language development. I have current field and teaching experience in program improvement. I regularly participate in professional development to stay on top of education research. I hold credentials in teaching, administration and pupil personnel services.

I will work with districts and their stakeholders; so we are never again, a county embarrassed by having the 3 lowest academic performing districts in the state. I will work on partnerships with higher education and other county offices of education so our district personnel no longer have to travel outside our county to receive training or hear quality speakers.

I have brought a program improvement district up 130 points. I have overseen 12 of 13 schools make or exceed their Academic Performance Index goal and closed the achievement gap by 5% in three years. Increased the Annual Measurable Achievement Objective of English Learners to 62.8%, 10% higher than the state average. I have one of only three Distinguished Schools in the county.

Collaborative Relationships: I have and will lead from a background of personal integrity, mutual respect and professional courtesy.