Candidate for
Board Member; Berryessa Union School District

Quality public education is the most important commitment we make to our society. Motivating our children for lifelong learning in elementary and middle school determines their success at higher levels. That is why our schools must instill in all children drive, desire, and dedication.

I am a product of public education and hold a PhD from UC Berkeley. As the father young children, I have observed how much kids love learning new things, and our system needs to harness that enthusiasm.

My goal as a member of the Board is to ensure that all Berryessa children, including my daughter, who attends Noble Elementary, have a broad range of opportunities and all the support that they need to be successful. During my 4 years on the Board, budgets have been cut, yet we have successfully achieved balanced services for our district's students, including music, art, counseling, libraries, and physical education. Our district's test scores have risen significantly every year and three schools have become California Distinguished Schools during my first term.

Our School Board must work well together and serve as a strong, independent body, asking tough questions and demanding accountability from administration. The current members of the Board have shown their faith in me by electing me to two consecutive terms as Board President. During these difficult fiscal times, steady leadership is essential in order to set and follow through on the most important priorities for our children.

I spearheaded the expansion of local financial support for our district by leading the effort to pass Measure W, which was supported by over 72% of our community in 2008, and provides $1.7 million annually to our schools.