"A Vote for Our Children"
Question: What is your philosophy on balancing taxes and spending?
Answer from Leslie: In terms of taxes and spending, I would like to reevaluate how we are spending all our money. I feel there are some areas that we may be spending too much on but really need to see the broad picture. I can tell you that the current board's solution of dipping into the reserve fund to artificially deflate the tax increase during an election year (2.9%) vs 3.75% for the next several years is not an acceptable solution. We have no corporate tax base in OJR and we need to be transparent and proactive with our fiscal responsibility to the taxpayers in this district.
Question: What are your thoughts on relocating students?
Answer from Lonny: First we would try and do research on what other schools in similar situations have tried historically. I'm sure the academics will likely be aligned, however the social aspects are quite important. As board members we must realize when we need outside advice on situations like these, as we only have one shot at it! We think certainly some sort of walk through so the new students aren't physically lost on top of meeting new students is in order. Our understanding is that the current staff and PTA have a "buddy" system in place to make the newcomers feel special. As this decision predated our prospective terms, I suggest you email the current Board members with any concerns. I can assure you, if elected, we would make sure to be responsive and sensitive to any future issues you may have. First we would try and do research on what other schools in similar situations have tried historically. I'm sure the academics will likely be aligned, however the social aspects are quite important. As board members we must realize when we need outside advice on situations like these, as we only have one shot at it! We think certainly some sort of walk through so the new students aren't physically lost on top of meeting new students is in order.
Question: What is your stance on bullying?
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Answer from Leslie: With social media, there is an even greater concern with cyber bullying. We plan to challenge the actions and programs in place to prevent bullying and if there are instances that parents feel their child is not getting the support they need, we would certainly like to be notified. I also believe, in order to solve the problem, we need to understand it better. Parent feedback on this type of issue is more than welcome!