SAVANNA SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES

These are the candidates running for three seats on the Savanna School District Board of Trustees in the Nov. 6 election. Edward Erdtsieck Age: 54 Occupation: Incumbent/ Air Force personnel manager. Background: Five years on school board, former PTA member, endorsed by teachers’ union. Spearheaded opening of previously shut down school. His three children have gone to district schools. Issues: Believes in small neighborhood schools; wants more open communication among district, community and school employees, especially on financial matters; believes in conservative spending to prepare for possible future budget shortfalls. Linda McGoldrick Age: 42 Occupation: Incumbent/ police communications operator. Background: Elected to board in 1981; fought unsuccessfully against selling unused school site to developers; won her last term without backing of the district’s unions; her two children have gone to district schools. Issues: Believes that year-round schools should be a top priority; wants district to better prepare for downturns in enrollment so that school sites are not sold off; believes that fluctuations in enrollment figures are temporary; wants more anti-gang education; if reelected, this would be her last term, as she believes that board membership should be limited. Patrick V. Ochoa Age: 60 Occupation: Incumbent/ real estate investor. Background: Board member since 1968; has been instrumental in cost-efficient spending and maintaining district facilities and teaching standards; PTA Honorary Life Award recipient; has support of the teachers’ union. Issues: Believes that basic education and anti-drug programs are top priorities and that parents and community should be involved in board decisions; wants to keep good relations between teachers and administration. Linda Weinstock Age: 33 Occupation: Businesswoman. Background: Co-president of PTA; School Site Council member; District Advisory Committee member; Greater Anaheim Legislative Coalition member. Former ESL teacher, camp counselor and school instructional aid; has two children in district schools. Issues: Wants to keep the district small and ensure anti-gang and anti-drug efforts keep schools safe.