Endorsements

This board generally flies below the radar screen of the public and the media, and the Weekly claims no intimate knowledge of its workings. Still, there are some accomplishments to acknowledge. Collectively, the board successfully steered a $1.2 billion bond measure to voter approval — a major, vital achievement for the largest community-college district in the state. The board also upgraded the administrative leadership of individual campuses and of the district itself, while continuing a decentralization effort that should allow talented managers to improve their campuses more quickly.

Major structural problems persist that, for the most part, are not the fault of the board. These schools remain perennially underfunded and are slated to take a big hit in the state budget. Meanwhile, the state is raising tuition — money that will go to the state, not the schools. The cost of a typical class is likely to triple from $33 to $72. It’s not a good deal for students: fewer, more-crowded classes that will cost more money to take.

The incumbents argue that these tough times are no times for beginners. That argument is a little overdrawn. The intriguing challengers include Donna Warren, an articulate, passionate retired auditor who’s run for Congress and lieutenant governor under the Green Party banner. Warren would be an interesting addition to the board, especially because it lacks an African-American. But there’s no pressing justification to replace the incumbent she’s running against, Scott-Hayes, the board’s only Latino. So Scott-Hayes gets the nod, although there are offices for which we could envision endorsing Warren.

OFFICE NO. 1

Sylvia Scott-Hayes

OFFICE NO. 3

Mona Field

OFFICE NO. 5

Georgia Mercer

OFFICE NO. 7

Warren T. Furutani