Candidate for School Board

Issue Positions - Go to Mr. Bushnell’s Background Information

Issues:

1. FINANCE: Our overall revenue increased only one percent this year. Both the state and federal governments mandate new programs but provide less money, putting a strain on the Manassas taxpayer. My business approach to school finances will make a difference in helping our system deal with the tough times that face us. The State has recently increased our Local Composite Index, meaning we will receive less money for the next biennium. The State believes we are a very wealthy community. I know we are not and I will spend accordingly.
    
2. BALDWIN ELEMENTARY: In the past few years, we have built Mayfield and added much-needed and long-promised additions at both Haydon and Weems. We did these projects, as well as the complete renovation of Osbourn High School, without having to ask for additional taxes or appropriations. Our debt service cost is going down, making this the best time to build a new Baldwin Elementary School. I will continue to take the lead in this project.
    
3. REGIONAL GOVERNOR’S SCHOOL: We have received state funding to plan a new Governor’s School for Math and Science at George Mason University. Having such a school will enhance the educational opportunities for Manassas students. Our more gifted students have not previously had such an opportunity. We must work hard to get this school built. Having such a golden opportunity locally also means our students will be able to continue to attend Osbourn, to play sports and to have other extracurricular activities, while attending the Governor’s School for part of the day.
    
4. ELEMENTARY SCIENCE: Two exciting new programs (Children’s Engineering and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) need to be offered so our elementary students can start to be exposed to science and engineering at an earlier age. This is a building block for the Governor’s School, but it is also a stand-alone series of programs that enhances our early science education.
    
5. HOME SCHOOL STUDENTS: We have offered part-time enrollment of home school and private-school students at both Metz Middle School and Osbourn High School. This makes us the only system in the area offering such opportunities at the middle school level. I will continue to support such programs.

Particular issue: We have a “golden triangle of education” near the heart of our downtown area. We need to work diligently to ensure that the new Baldwin Elementary, Osbourn High School, Johnson Learning Center and our Central Office are included in the City’s plans for the area – and that we work with the City to make certain that the resulting downtown area is a positive attraction for future residents. We need to work to incorporate educational facilities planning with the City’s overall master plans for development. If re-elected, I will push for a new educational comprehensive plan for the area, while working with City planning officials and other elected officials to make sure the resulting plan is in the best interest of all of our residents – especially our student population.

Additional: With few contested races in this year’s election, your vote counts more than ever before. I need your help to return to the School Board. I believe I make a difference and I want to continue working for you and your children. Please make sure you vote on May 6^th. And I humbly ask for your vote so we can make all of the dreams and plans we have for this school system a reality.

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