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Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo County, CA November 7, 2006 Election
Smart Voter

Change Is Needed If We Want To Move Forward

By John E. Hinden

Candidate for Board Member; Santa Maria-Bonita School District

This information is provided by the candidate
The current Board of Education has failed to ensure accountability to the public
The Santa Barbara County civil grand jury's report on the shortcomings of the Santa Maria-Bonita School District Administration, and Board of Education, said it all about the problems facing the District. As a result of the TurnKey fiasco, at least $6,000,000 in losses, poor management by the District, and a Board of Education asleep at the wheel. Why would this group (and the 2 incumbents), entrusted with public funds ( i.e. taxpayer dollars), do this? The Grand Jury states "the District avoided a financial catastrophe by sheer luck and good fortune." Is this the way to run a school district?

The children of this District deserve more and their futures should be based, in part, on competent leadership in the District. Parents should know their children are safe at school, are receiving the education promised by the District, and believe their children will become successful citizens in this community. Can parents entrust their children to this District?

The District is faced with overcrowded classrooms, not enough teachers, and not enough space to handle its needs. Is this the "safe environment" parents want their children to be in during the day?

It is time to stop the "business as usual" philosophy that exists and face the issues. The Board needs new blood and ideas on how to solve the real problems of the District. As a member of the Board I will demand the District address the safety issue by their submission of an immediate plan to make our schools safe and less stressful for students and teachers alike.

I am the only candidate who has brought up any "issue" facing this District. While other candidates talk of their experience and background, nothing is mentioned about fixing problems, or even acknowledging problems exist. It will be business as usual unless the public stands up and demands more from the Board.

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