Why I'm Running

Before I start asking people for their vote or support, I want to explain why I'm running. The simple answer is that I have a servant's heart. Serving others is consistent with my values and I have a special place in my heart for children. This has been true for a long time, starting with volunteering for the Special Olympics when I was in high school. More recently, I have been both a worker bee and a board member for the Assistance League of Victor Valley, Footprinters, the High Desert Domestic Violence Program, and now the Apple Valley Unified School District. I also have served as a coach for six years with the little soccer players. My skill level doesn't allow me to go much higher. : )

I ran for this position in 2006 because I believed my experience as a parent and a law enforcement professional would add a beneficial perspective to the board. Four years later, I know that has been the case, especially as we have navigated severe and ongoing cuts in funding. The decisions have been difficult, often unpopular, and especially hard on employees as we have had to lay off committed and talented people. These are tough times for education.

It is because of these challenging circumstances I am running for re-election. It is more important than ever to have a board with members from varying backgrounds who work together to keep CHILDREN at the forefront of every decisons. And, while having the right motive is paramount, it is not enough to be effective as a board member. Having experience in personnel and confidential matters, labor relations, state budgets, resource management, law enforcement matters, and community relations has been very beneficial in my service to the board. Also with three older children through high school and one in elementary school, I've had a front row seat from a parent's perspective for almost 20 years.

There are many great things going on in our district and our kids are doing well. In my next post, I'll talk a little about student performance and some things happening around the district. Please feel free to leave comments!
Lisa