Posted by additional info, a resident of the Menlo Park: Central Menlo Park neighborhood, on Oct 27, 2009 at 10:41 pm

Chris Thomsen's older son goes to Summit, but his younger son goes to MA.

Posted by Concerned Parent, a resident of the Menlo Park: The Willows neighborhood, on Oct 28, 2009 at 10:39 am

It strikes me that having everyone on the board of trustees having the same views is a recipe for disaster. It's great to have people get along but that is done by people behaving civily toward each other and being respectful of differing views and opinions. Part of the job here is to work with the teachers unions, but this is by definition an adversarial interaction. My inclination is to look with suspicion at any candidate endorsed by the teachers unions as such a candidate is more likley to resist the type of change our educational system needs. Even in the lone voice scenario, there is at least the opportunity to raise issues that doesn't exist today and certainly won't with Sarver and Chang-Kiraly. Why any candidate would disagree with transparency (Sarver apparently does) is also beyond me. We are talking about our children's education and this affects our future as well. We spend a significant amount of money on education (rightfully so), but never enough, hence it is critically important to make sure we get the most bang for each buck. Being blind to where the dollars go is hardly an acceptable approach.

Posted by Simple Simon, a member of the Oak Knoll School community, on Oct 28, 2009 at 10:48 am

I'm voting Thomsen & Ferrando, because:

1) As financially savvy fresh candidates, they will scrutinize the budget.

2) Not blindly accept the status quo that has been so characteristic of this BOT

3) Help the District move beyond the Everest Lawsuit (whether the District wins or loses -- we all lose)

Posted by WhoRUpeoole, a resident of another community, on Oct 28, 2009 at 10:52 am

I would like to compliment and thank Mr. Boyce for his very informative and balanced article regarding the candidates and our choices in this very important election. One of the best pieces of political analysis (done without political bias) I have ever read. I found it very helpful in enabling me to solidify my resolve in terms of who I will vote for.

Posted by C. Aution, a resident of another community, on Oct 29, 2009 at 10:12 am

As voters in the SUHSD head into the final week before the election, don't forget the substantial questions raised about Virginia Chang Kiraly's leadership in comments made previously to the Almanac. You may want to shape your vote accordingly.

Web Link

Posted by jim watson, a resident of the Menlo Park: other neighborhood, on Nov 2, 2009 at 6:54 pm

We need Chris Thomsen and Bob Ferrando to manage the budget. They have common sense and excellent skills. They are the only two that will do a good job and use OUR money well. Our children deserve the best. Vote Chris Thomsen and Bob Ferrando.