(1) Previous Experience

As a native Madisonian and a graduate of West High School, I feel I understand Madison; the quality of our public schools; the changes that have impacted our young people in our city; and what it will take to maintain high quality public education amidst shrinking school budgets. I have also supported our schools through volunteering, and helping create opportunities such as the comprehensive tutorial program/partnership between the UW-Madison and Midvale-Lincoln School which has brought over 40 "trained" tutors into our schools. In addition, my work in the schools, at the State Department of Public Instruction, and on several State and local education committees will bring a needed perspective to the board.

(2) Current Issues

Three current issues that are very important are State-imposed revenue limits, school safety and improving the academic achievement of "minority" students. The revenue limits are already putting a strain on our school district's ability to meet both its building maintenance, and school staffing and program needs. We are already nearly $10 million behind in meeting our maintenance needs. To avoid drastic budget cuts, our school district will likely have to go to referendum. In doing so, our district will have to prioritize its needs, distinguish need from want, and effectively communicate these issues to the public.

(3) Past Issues

I would have been forthright about my role in the domestic partnership insurance issue. My opponent was responsible for expanding the policy to include "anyone" in a domestic partnership, but then pretended he had no role. Also, I would have not allowed the school district to increase its budget by $1.1 million dollars for administrative expenses earlier this month, after it claimed it could not cover $1 million of the teachers contract in December. Having experience and training in education, I recognize that money is better spent in the classroom.