by Pete Behr
Charlotte Hyland said it was important “to retain small class sizes, particularly in the elementary grades, so our teachers are able to really know all students and attend to their needs appropriately…..The Board should support the Council’s ongoing efforts to promote economic redevelopment, which is generating the new tax revenue we need to keep our teacher’s salaries competitive with neighboring jurisdictions.”
Kim Maller said extending the International Baccalaureate program into the primary and middle schools “will help continue our tradition of curriculum excellence. We also must continue to attract and retain the very best personnel….High quality teachers are essential to our students’ success.” Maintaining excellent schools “is essential for our students, and in doing so, our real estate values will remain as strong as possible during these years of economic uncertainty.”
Incumbent Kieran Sharpe said “we must sustain small class and school sizes, retain and recruit top-notch teachers, administrators and other staff, and give students, staff and parents access to facilities suitable for a world-class education. He said, “our [school] calendar is the shortest of any district in our area and much shorter than in many other countries…We should find ways for students to have more time with teachers and use time more effectively.”
Incumbent Joan E. Wodiska said that “community engagement is essential to our schools’ success.” She has worked on the board to share information with the public “in a clear, transparent and consistent manner.” The city faces “challenges of tightening budget pressures and maintaining competitive salaries …. Educational innovations must continue [by] better utilizing existing funds and working with City Council to diversify our community’s tax base, while reducing the burden on local homeowners.”
Hyland, Maller and Wodiska were endorsed by Citizens for a Better City. Sharpe is running as an independent.
The above quotations are taken from the League of Women Voters Voter Guide, from "Chairman Departs, Leaving Three Seats for Four Candidates" and from candidate profiles in the Washington Post. Click on the hyperlinked candidate name to reach each Washington Post profile.
Peter Behr is a freelance writer and a member of the steering committee for Deliberation Falls Church City. He is also a member of the Citizens for a Better City.
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