Creative Paths to Aiding Education Urged by Official

Thank you to Jerry Derloshon for a very compelling article on the challenges of public education funding (“Learning Is Too Vital to Be Filed Under ‘Corporate Investment,’ ” Commentary, Nov. 10). We absolutely agree that “the burden for public education is supposed to be shared by the taxpaying public.” We are also very grateful that he raised issues of quality and equity for all students. There are, however, other points which require clarification.

In this period of declining state support, school districts have to be creative in seeking alternatives. We must look to other avenues and make use of all available resources. In the Irvine Unified School District, we have attempted to garner additional support through a parcel tax. We were unsuccessful.

We established a Legislative Action Network that works extremely hard in its lobbying efforts to keep educational funding a California priority. Irvine has a reputation for strong booster and PTA support, capitalizing on all grant opportunities and establishing business partnerships.

In addition, the Irvine Unified School District more than two years ago developed a strategic plan that included as a major component the development of an endowment to provide long-term financial stability. Discussions with the Irvine Co. began at that time regarding their participation as a major donor. The Irvine Co. has long been a benefactor to schools in this area. We consider ourselves extremely fortunate to have their support with no strings attached.

As is true with other Orange County school districts, Irvine has made responsible cutbacks exceeding $5.7 million over the past two years. We’re doing the best we can with what’s available and refuse to ignore any funding opportunity that can help maintain the quality of an outstanding educational system.

The suggestion that all students deserve better than they are getting is right on target. Perhaps the encouragement of corporate investments will turn the tide and encourage the broader social responsibility we all advocate. At the very least, corporate investment in education is a worthy experiment in broadening the financial support for education.

HELEN CAMERON, President, Irvine Unified School District Board of Education