Steven Peterson

Quality Education within a Balanced Budget

If reelected, I will work with the leadership and teachers of Mesa Public Schools, community leaders, parents, and educators to continue the winning tradition!!

During the past 4 years , we have balanced the budget while facing over $110 million in budget and bonding cuts, reduced excess capacity by closing or repurposing schools, began the process of upgrading the use of technology and have begun to implement Common Core State Standards.

To be successful in the future we need to maximize the use of available resources to educate our children. It is essential that we:

Ensure that maximum funding reaches the classroom and teachers

Implement the national model of 21st century learning through enhanced use of technology and focusing on the 4 C’s (critical thinking, communications, collaboration and creativity) along with the 3 R’s (reading, writing and arithmetic)

Maintain a balanced budget and resume pay increases for teachers and staff

Maintain a safe environment for learning

I will support and work for initiatives that promote a safe place to study and learn. I will work with the teachers and the leadership of Mesa Public Schools to reduce or eliminate drugs, gangs and bullies.

Promote Parental Involvement

A key resource of Mesa Public Schools is the parents of the students. I will work to promote parental involvement in the education process. The most effective education a child receives is what he/she learns in the home. The most effective public education happens when parents are volunteering in the schools, reviewing homework, giving input to the schools, encouraging their children’s academic excellence, and supporting college and career preparation. Promoting and embracing parent involvement can make the difference between a so-so school and a top-notch educational facility. Getting and keeping parents involved in the schools lets them take charge of their children’s education, while still abiding by the mandates of state and federal governments.

[-- Information from www.stevenforschoolboard.com]