School Board Candidates Forum Questions 10 and 11

Question 10: In the past, the school district was the largest employer in our area. The loss of students and loss of school district jobs has worsened the impact of the recession on local businesses. Are there school district policies that can benefit the local economy? What are they?

John Fleming
I opposed the superintendent outsourcing bus maintenance and food preparation. I have fought to have the superintendent contact students who left and discover why they were dissatisfied. I support policy changes that will bring students back. We need harmony between the district and the community.

Lark Shillig
Yes. Contractual labor with open bidding, as allowed by law. All interviewing processes to fill such positions must be accessible to governing board members.

Vickie Mullen
When the economy sufficiently turns around, we will be ready with successful schools to take in the newly enrolling students. Once we reach a critical mass, we can diversify classes at the schools and offer a broad range of after school activities.

Scott Robinson 2 Yr
There are district polices in place including cf 5113.2 allowing students to become involved in their community through work permit programs that contribute to the economic health of local businesses.

Linda Sheldon
Yes. The governing board may contractually purchase equipment, materials and supplies to be furnished, sold or leased to the district. The governing board can contract with local businesses for repairs or maintenance. Also, the district can employ local residents which will help the local economy.

Tim Schantzen 2 Yr
The school district’s policies can most definitely benefit the local economy. A primary policy that would benefit the local economy is to ensure local companies can compete in bidding for contracts. If equal quality is offered on similar terms, always go local.

Bob Anderson
Yes! School policies that promote, encourage, and advance education will attract new families to move here adding to; jobs, business and revenue for our community, county, and state.

Dean Crabb 2 Yr
We should attempt to use our community in all bids/purchases possible. We should look for teachers who live in our community. Recommend all present and new staff of our schools relocate to the hill. Frazier community is after all a wonderful place to live.


 Question 11: Tell us about something important to you that we haven’t asked about.

John Fleming
I do not support the radical policies the current superintendent has and is putting forth. We need to change directions.
I currently talk to ETUSD staff to find ways to help our district. I have been criticized by the superintendent for talking to our staff.

Lark Shillig
Lived here 26 years. Raised 10 wonderful, accomplished children. Tried varied educational avenues: homeschool, charter school, bussing children before FMHS established. Children attended all 3 schools in district. Know what works! Let’s invest in our children’s education and build a brighter future for us all!

Vickie Mullen
I have been coaching sports gratis at the high school, middle school, and now FP elementary school. These programs exist but for the sacrifice of time, money, and sanity of a few of us Working Together with local businesses to make this community better.

Scott Robinson 2 Yr
Having 2 children in the district I have a vested interest. Everyone needs to work together for the same goal, “our children’s educational success” not personal agendas. It’s also paramount that we ensure safety and well-being of our children and staff at all times.

Linda Sheldon
I am running for office because I really care about the children. I want to do my part in providing a wellrounded education which will be the foundation for the student’s future success and help ensure they will grow to be an asset to society.

Tim Schantzen 2 Yr
Students need to be number one in all decisions the board makes. If a decision could benefit the goals of teaching our children or give them the tools to enter society as an adult, then it should be considered and adopted if prudent.

Bob Anderson
Some may have noticed and are concerned that I’m not registered to vote where I live. This was necessitated when I first moved here and neither LA nor Kern Counties recognized my address and still don’t. So I asked friend if I could use his…./

Dean Crabb 2 Yr
I was limited to brief answers for these questions. If anyone has any additional questions or would like me to elaborate please feel free to contact me at: dumaslineman@usa.com. I care how the public feels and I encourage your input. Thank you for your consideration.

Hot links to QUESTIONS

0) Candidates photos and introduction
1) Candidates’ goals as trustees
2) Students’ performance
3) Charter school’s leadership

4) Closing a campus
5) Role of trustees in regard to superintendent
6) Temperament and the board

7) Transparency
8) Possible Conflicts of interest: Religion
9) Possible Conflicts of Intereat: Financial

10) Impact of schools on local economy
11) The last word

 

This is part of the October 12, 2012 online edition of The Mountain Enterprise.

Have an opinion on this matter? We'd like to hear from you.