Browse archives: 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998 | 1997 | 1996 | 1995

Published on 10/23/1995 All articles from this issue

Foothill-De Anza trustee candidates discuss education goals at forum

printer friendly version

By Clyde Noel / Town Crier Staff Writer

What better place for a Foothill-De Anza College Board of Trustees candidate to explain political goals than sitting in a chemistry classroom?

The Los Altos-Mountain View League of Women Voters held a candidates forum Oct. 19 at Foothill College before a sparse audience. But those attending were intent to hear the response of the three incumbents and one challenger running for three vacant seats on the Foothill-De Anza Board of Trustees.

The three incumbents, Dolores Sandoval of Cupertino, Los Altos resident Mary Mason and Judy Moss, of Mountain View, were proud of the present balanced budget that contains a 5 percent surplus. When they were first elected, the district had a $10 million shortfall in 1991.

"When I was elected, I promised a change for the best," Sandoval said. "I've worked conscientiously to fulfill that pledge. In 1991, the district was barely solvent. In four years of new leadership and stronger insight, the dedicated staff has restored financial stability. Today, Foothill-De Anza has healthy reserves and remains an educational leader."

Mason is proud of the new leadership the colleges have with a new chancellor and two new presidents. "There is now an improved communication between the campuses because new players are in position," Mason said. "I am proud of my individual record because most of these changes occurred while I was on the board."

Moss' said her primary goal is to assure the needs of a diverse student body are met with outstanding teachers and a staff in well-maintained facilities with appropriate equipment. Challenger Kevin Murray, of Palo Alto, said he was the only member of the panel that has the experience of being an adjunct professor of seven community colleges.

"My experience as an educator has identified the concerns and conditions facing the diverse student population in the 1990s," Murray said. "The student needs are not being met by the current operating priorities of the district and I plan to reform the agenda of the district and return our community college to its intended constituency."

In a question-and-answer period from the audience, each candidate was asked the three most important responsibilities of a trustee.

Sandoval said a trustee should ensure students are getting a quality education, that the district be financially stable and to make sure there is an accessible education for everyone.

Murray listed his responsibilities as ensuring a full student population, a fiscally sound district and recognizing the faculty and staff.

Mason believed the most important trustee responsibility is to see district resources are used properly and are available for the next generation of students.

Moss felt community colleges must provide opportunities for all to benefit from post-secondary education and to return the two colleges to their former status of offering a superior education.

"I love this. I benefit from growing up here and going to school here and I enjoy the college," Sandoval said in her closing statement. "I look forward to see successful students and partnerships because these community colleges make life livable in this community."

"I am looking for more accessibility and cooperation between the two colleges," Moss said. "I think we should change enrollment practices and I am a believer in affirmative action. I also want to assure that the teaching environment is done in an economic manner."

Murray said there should be unity between students and the faculty.

"My past record is important," Mason said. "You should review and evaluate my record as a trustee. It takes time to stay in touch and I have the desire to serve as a community leader. During the next four years I will work to improve coordination between the two colleges and central services, support long-term planning based on assessment and utilize technology for improved student services."

Election Day is Nov. 7.