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Issues: Pick 5 (or more, or less) issues you think are important to Manassas and give your thoughts on them
- All schools fully State accredited and compliant with the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act.
Obtaining full accreditation for all schools is paramount, while obtaining full compliance with the NCLB Act for all schools may be slightly less of a priority, given the greater flexibility that may be provided in the upcoming reauthorization of the Act.
- Building a new Baldwin ES.
Baldwin is old and outdated in many ways, a patchwork of connected buildings that poses a security challenge because of numerous means of entry/egress, an asbestos hazard, and no longer capable of having its parts replaced/upgraded economically.
- Greater emphasis on the education of pre-K-3 students.
Under Virginia Pre-School Initiative, which will supplement Head Start beginning with the ’08-’09 school year, ~54 students will be served, substantially increasing the number of pre-schoolers being served. $200k is in the ’08-’09 proposed City budget for a science and technology program that will include K-3 students.
- Continued strict fiscal discipline.
In the face of a declining real estate tax base with no near-term end in sight, there needs to be more resourcefulness in finding sources of funding. The Manassas Education Foundation is providing more funding than ever before and additional funding from the City is being proposed as a direct result of a www.manassasnext.com ‘s Schools action item. Other sources, such as www.donorschoose.org, could be tapped.
- Restoration of school division’s excellent public image.
Although many great things are happening in the schools, the school division’s public image is taking a beating (e.g., www.greatschools.net ). This impacts the desirability on the part of families and businesses to move here.
Is there a particular issue you are especially committed to? If so, explain how you plan to address it if elected:
- Restoration of school division’s excellent public image.
Although many great things are happening in the schools, the school division’s public image is taking a beating (e.g., www.greatschools.net ). This impacts the desirability on the part of families and businesses to move here.
Anything additional:
As retiree with no full-time commitments, I will be able to devote more time and energy to my School Board duties.
Authorized by the Candidate
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