Do you feel that our elected leaders feel they are in the “ruling” class and we do not matter? Do you agree they have become isolated from everyday people and activities? I have come across some elected officials and candidates who believe if you do not have a bunch of initials after your name or have a certain type of job; you are somehow unqualified or unworthy to hold elected office. Common sen
se tells me otherwise, which is something missing from many of our elected leaders. I make my living as a painter, which means I go to someone’s house or building to paint it. I coach little league baseball, volunteer in my community, and treat people with respect. As a member of the school board, I will get up each morning to go to work, volunteer in our community, and treat everyone with respect. In other words, I will be the same person. I will not turn into a member of the “ruling” class or become an elitist. My mother taught me that you did not spend more than you earn. You even try to save a little for a rainy day – just common sense. Seems like a simple concept to most of us. Unfortunately, many of our leaders do not understand if you have $100, you cannot spend $105. I will live by the philosophy you cannot spend more than you earn as a member of our school board. Our schools must remain under control of local officials, not under the control or influence of Sacramento political lobbyists, investment advisors, or self-styled education experts and companies. My loyalty is to the people of our school district. We have limited amounts of money to spend every year. We must have programs meeting student needs. The money is available to fund art and music programs for all our children and career training programs for those students not on the college track. To accomplish this it will take using “common sense” when we make choices and spending money wisely. Improvement and change to education requires leadership while using some common sense, not throwing up your hands and giving the responsibility to others. Some will say local boards do not have the ability or power to make the changes needed, that is why they paid others to make the change. I say leaders make changes by leading. If you can pay someone, you can do it. Let’s not hide behind others. People call it leadership. It requires not having a political agenda, but a desire and willingness to be open, to listen, and to learn while understanding the goal is to educate children. Common sense can go a long way to getting us where we want to go. Your vote will make a difference. Please support me, Glenn Kennedy, community leader, 2009/2010 Hometown Hero, Community Services Commissioner, Volunteer of the Year, and a veteran on November 8, 2011. Candidate, West Covina Unified School Board
E-Mail: [email protected]
Website: www.GlennKennedy.Net
