By Brad Pollack Santa Monica
In response to Bill Bauer’s My Write column regarding [Superintendent Dianne] Talarico’s resignation (“Resignations, elections and a councilman’s ‘no’” page 4, June 9), as a SMMUSD parent, Santa Monica taxpayer and business owner, I cannot comment on Talarico’s tenure as superintendent. I did not personally have an opportunity to get to know her but she did seem to have a generally positive impact overall on the school district.
However, I did get to know [former Superintendent] John Deasy a bit. Several years ago, when my daughter was in elementary school, I volunteered almost every Wednesday for two years to help during math period. More than several times, Deasy poked his head into the classroom and I had a number of conversations with him. My wife and I also attended several meetings where Deasy spoke.
I enjoy Bill’s column and frequently agree with him. But, in regard to John Deasy, I must disagree. In my opinion, he was not aloof or indifferent, but just the opposite. I found John Deasy to be very smart, dynamic, forward-thinking, approachable, and hands-on in his management of the school district. I do not believe that the school district, parents, and kids could have asked for more; John Deasy delivered the “goods” as the saying goes.
Regarding Bauer’s comments about the school board, while I do not agree with all the decisions that the board has made or all board perspectives (there are areas where I have some issues), overall, I think the school board has done a good job. We live in a complex and fractured society which makes decision-making and pleasing all constituencies difficult if not impossible.
SMMUSD is still one of the best run school districts in California and possibly the entire country. The achievements and performance of the students is excellent and college admissions to a broad and diverse range of colleges throughout the country reflect the students’ wide-ranging capabilities. In addition to the students, the district also has outstanding and dedicated teachers and supporting personnel.
Is everything perfect? No. Is there room for improvement? Yes. The recent incident at Lincoln is an example of something that probably could have been avoided if better rules where in place at the time. Bauer says he is encouraged by the recent formation of LEAD; I am encouraged by this and the widespread involvement of district parents on a daily basis. Unfortunately, what I am not encouraged about is his apparent inclination to see more bad than good in the district. Let’s look to capitalize on what is already excellent and take Santa Monica schools to the next level — A+superior!
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on June 10, 2008. Read the original PDF.