Board member emails

If emailing board members, please remember to be courteous and consider they most likely got into education because they care about what happens to the kids. It can’t be easy trying to figure out how to implement such devastating budget cuts.

Below are the board member emails …

nancy.kirkpatrick@svusd.org
dore.gilbert@svusd.org
ginnyfay.aitkens@svusd.org
don.sedgwick@svusd.org
suzie.swartz@svusd.org
trevor.geller@svusd.org (Trevor is a senior at THHS and the student representative. He doesn’t have an official vote but his opinions are definitely heard)

Board member Bio information …

Ginny Aitkens:

This information is provided by the candidate. As an avid supporter of our community public schools who sees the importance of quality education for all children, I am seeking to serve on the SVUSD Board of
Education. During the past 18 years, with three children enrolled in Saddleback schools, I have evolved from a parent working in the classroom to a community member involved in the process of improving education for all children. My service as Education Council President, Legislative Chairperson for PTA Council, president/member of parent and district support groups, etc. has provided me with a familiarity with budget issues, school safety, curriculum, and many other critical school issues. My past experience in public administration and the private financial sector has given me an opportunity to work with diverse groups in solving complex problems. I believe most parents want more for their children. I believe most taxpayers want more for their dollar. With an increased emphasis on expectations and results on the part of both schools and parents, an increased level of achievement is attainable. Our school community possesses all the essential elements for excellence. I will
work to see that our entire community benefits from excellence in our schools.

DON SEDGWICK: Biographical Highlights

Occupation: Governing Board Member, Saddleback Valley Unified School District
Former President, Orange County School Boards Association
Form er President Saddleback Valley USD Board Of Education
Former Branch President, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
President of International Fashion Jewelry Wholesale Company (S&A Wholesale)
Elected twice to O.C. Republican Central Committee
Current Board of Education President, Coastline ROP

Top Priorities if Elected

Maintain Class Size Reduction Program in all grades where it is offered from state. Successfully implement the largest facilities renovation effort in district’s history.
Adequately compensate teachers, while restoring music and other previously cut programs, while balancing a tight budget.

Nancy Kirckpatrick:

Clear, high standards which make teachers, administrators and school board members accountable to the parents of this District
Safe, nuturing learning environments which foster educational and personal growth
Commitment to a full curriculum which prepares our students for the 21st Century

Suzie Swartz:

Stay Focused on the Students to Maintain High Education Standards and Levels of Support for Our Schools
Aggressively Pursue Funding to Lower Class Sizes, Restore Music and Science Programs, and Attract and Retain High Caliber Teachers
Maintain Fiscal Responsibility and Ensure Focus Stays on Our Children – Put the Money Into the Classrooms Where it has the Greatest Impact