too many in a class. I want to see hands-on excitement and enthusiasm
for learning in each and every classroom. This is where we must focus
our energy, our attention and our spending!
4. Are you concerned that the current curriculum is more geared
toward preparing students for state testing?
Although state-mandated testing is unavoidable in the public
schools, Laguna Beach has always prided itself on keeping its value
in perspective. Having worked closely with my children's teachers
over the years, I know that they do work to prepare their students to
do well, but refuse to do meaningless "teaching to the test."
Therefore I do not believe that the current curriculum is geared
unduly toward state testing.
5. How will the board help create a more global curriculum that
will prepare students for the future?
In an increasingly competitive global society, the education our
children receive will be the single most important tool with which
they will face their future. With the rapid explosion of technology
and the ever-increasing interdependence of world cultures, their
future will be determined by their ability to adapt, to create, to
learn and to change. We must teach rigorous academics in a setting
where our kids also learn moral values, flexibility and a lifelong
enthusiasm for learning. We need teachers who are excellent role
models and classes small enough that the teacher and the student can
interact meaningfully.
