1. Can you summarize what you believe to be the relative merits of both K-5 and K-8 elementary school configurations, and also provide your opinion of which configuration is best designed for SUSD to compete with private and charter schools, as well as other school districts?

First, I do not think that only one configuration is best designed for SUSD to compete with private and charter schools as well as other school districts. Both options can offer a competitive edge because one size does not fit all for all kids. With that said, I do not believe that every complex needs to offer every option possible.

As I have stated before, configuration decisions need to be discussed with each school and complex. If parents are preferable to one configuration over another the District needs to weigh that heavily in any decision making process.

Each configuration does have relative merit and value. A K-8 offers the continuity of one educational program and community for students to remain in the safety net of their home environment before high school. A K-5 going to 6-8 offers a precursor to high school, where, often, more elective options are available for students to explore different areas of interest (technology, literacy electives, etc...). We have examples of successful K-8 programs as well as successful middle school models. Again, one size does not fit all. Following a comprehensive survey, each community’s desires need to be considered.

2. There was a significant amount of backlash concerning the Facilities Utilization discussions and Community Input Forums held last spring/summer. Specifically, parents and school communities believe that many feasible proposals were ignored or too quickly dismissed by the administration and Governing Board. If elected, how do you plan on reaching out to the community and showing parents that their input is both valued and given proper consideration?

For myself, I feel that community input was considered during the Facility utilization discussion. I have listened to and been in contact with numerous parents and parent groups over the last several months to balance the best interests of students with fiscal responsibility. I listened to the community when I spoke out last March that I was not in favor of closing Pima because of its ‘Excelling’ status and even remarked at the time that I had listened and would continue to listen to each of the communities involved. I have done that and will continue to communicate with each community to explore the best options possible to meet our financial needs and, most importantly, the needs of our children.

3. Given the current economic climate, what are your views on the feasibility of the planned 2009 bond proposal? What items on it do you consider to be priority, and what questions would you like answered before it is finalized?

The bond presentation reflected the state of our facilities, including every possible repair. We are no longer being funded by the State for Building Renewal. The reality is that school maintenance and repair must occur in spite of economic conditions. However, if proposed, a bond should be paired down to address the most pressing needs within SUSD.

4. How do you envision SUSD five years from now?

With the many academic road maps we have in place, I would anticipate SUSD to be 100% “Excelling” Schools with numerous specialized programs in place to not only fit the educational needs of our children, but to deliver the best educational experience possible.