A vote for Samperi

Dear Editor:I would like to respond to comments made by Betty Monroy, school board candidate, in her Patriot interview of Aug. 8. ("School Board Challengers Emerge," 8/8/13) As a former school board member and a longtime friend of Downey Unified School District, I disagree with Ms. Monroy's concerns about the present board not being current with what is going on in the schools. The present board is a cohesive, dedicated group of individuals who spend numerous hours staying informed and focused on maintaining high test scores and graduation rates. Betty's opponent, Barbara Samperi, is as informed a board member as one can be. Aside from official functions and meetings, Barbara attends numerous events and activities at each and every Downey school on a regular basis, makes yearly "school visits", walking through classrooms, speaking with teachers and students, and regularly reads at several "read-in's" each year. She has spent countless hours actively volunteering in classrooms, in PTA, City of Downey committees, and philanthropic organizations. Barbara has always been an advocate for children and children's issues, including working and volunteering with the Exchange Club Family Support Center for several years to help prevent child abuse. Barbara's philosophy has always been to put the child or student first and foremost. Barbara is an outstanding trustee who promotes fair and equal treatment for all students and is a valued member of the board. Cheryl Andresen Former member, Downey School Board

********** Published: Aug. 15, 2013 - Volume 12 - Issue 18