Commentary: Schools for the Future by Jeff Harding

Once again, the residents of Healdsburg have demonstrated support for our children! Thank you to the thousands of voters who helped to pass Measure E to modernize schools in Healdsburg.
The passage of Measure E has launched a new dialogue in the halls of our schools. We realize that today’s kindergarten students will graduate from college and enter the work force in the year 2030. Our task is to design buildings that promote student success 10, 20 and even 30 years from now. We must plan today for infrastructure that will support the technology of tomorrow.  
As we design new buildings and modernize others, my promise to you is simple: Measure E will improve the quality of education we provide to our students. New science labs will engage students in critical thinking activities. Upgraded technology will prepare students with modern business practices. Bright and airy classrooms will encourage student engagement. In the end, students will graduate better prepared to enter a 21st century work force.
Over the coming months, design teams from Healdsburg High School and Healdsburg Junior High School will tour modern campuses in other communities. They will examine the most progressive teaching practices and will work with school architects to incorporate 21st century practices into our campuses.
I will be reporting our progress to a committee comprised of local residents. This “Citizens’ Oversight Committee” has been authorized by the Board of Trustees following guidelines established by Proposition 39. Committee members will inform the public on building progress. They will also review expenditures to verify compliance with Measure E.
As outlined by Proposition 39, the Citizens’ Oversight Committee will consist of at least seven members appointed by the Board of Trustees including:
• One parent or guardian at-large
• One parent or guardian from the PTO or school site council
• One business member
• One senior citizen
• One member of a taxpayers association
• Two members of the community at-large
Committee members must be at least 18 years old and may not be employed by the District. For more information on the Citizens’ Oversight Committee or to download an application, please see our website at www.husd.com or contact me directly at jh******@hu**.com.  Applications are due by September 28, 2012.
Great communities have great schools. The residents of Healdsburg have demonstrated again, through the passage of Measure E, that our schools are worth the investment. In Healdsburg, our children deserve the finest education we can offer.
Jeff Harding, Ed.D. is Superintendent of the Healdsburg Unified School District.