Why Bergeson Is a Good Choice : Wilson’s nominee to replace the fallen Honig has experience, integrity and smarts

State Sen. Marian Bergeson, Gov. Pete Wilson’s nominee for state schools chief, is the right choice to fill the unexpired term of Bill Honig. The Orange County Republican has integrity, smarts, perseverance and experience in education finance--as well as in the classroom. She is capable of filling the post ably at least until the November, 1994, election; she ought to be confirmed by the Legislature without delay.

A former teacher and school board member, Bergeson will face a daunting task if she assumes the post of superintendent of public instruction. Wilson and state lawmakers are entering yet another round of negotiations over California’s battered budget, and education, as was the case last year, is vulnerable to massive cuts. New cutbacks would come as schools are overwhelmed with additional students, and when there are widespread concerns about the quality of public education. With the limited funds at hand, schools now barely can do what they are supposed to do. Further reductions in per-pupil funding could be disastrous.

Bergeson last year supported Wilson’s proposal to cut school funding in an effort to close a $10.7-billion gap in the state budget. Eventually, in the face of opposition from Assembly Speaker Willie Brown (D-San Francisco), the governor agreed to a compromise that kept per-pupil funding at about $4,200. But Bergeson’s position on the matter earned her Brown’s enmity, and that doesn’t bode well for a smooth confirmation.

Disagreeing with Bergeson on policy matters is one thing, but Brown also remains angry with Bergeson--13 years after the fact--for refusing to vote for him for Speaker. Then an assemblywoman, Bergeson would not go along with a deal made with Brown by other Assembly Republicans to elect him Speaker. That’s ancient history now. Brown should leave it out of the confirmation process. Bury the darn hatchet.

Nor should Brown expect Wilson, a Republican, to appoint a Democrat to the officially nonpartisan post vacated by Honig, a Democrat, following his conviction on felony conflict-of-interest charges.

Bergeson, 67, a Newport Beach resident, has proven herself to be an excellent legislator. She stands up for her conservative principles but is no ideologue. She’s willing to work with Democrats to find solutions. Other strong candidates for schools chief may come forward in 1994. But for now, Bergeson is a fine choice.