Candidates for L.A. School Chief

The pending change in leadership of the LAUSD does not have anything to do with Ruben Zacarias being a Latino (“Ethnic Politics at Its Worst,” Commentary, May 6). If we are vociferous, as Frank del Olmo writes, it is for a good reason.

We, as the taxpayers and supporters of the school system, must make sure that the qualifications, seniority, experience and the ability to understand and communicate with the people who make up a good majority of the population be properly represented. We firmly believe that Zacarias is not only a role model in our community, but he also is a role model outside our Spanish-speaking community.

Do not write off Zacarias just because he is Latino. Just be fair and see his qualifications and his experience with the school district. He has the credentials, qualities and expertise.

HUMBERTO CAMACHO

Compton

* Bravo! Del Olmo’s article was right on the mark. Why can’t candidates be chosen based simply on their qualifications? Let us end this racial balkanizing once and for all.

The LAUSD has lost its credibility, not only because of its inability to provide quality education to the students of this city but also because of its political shenanigans and bickering.

EUGENE S. AGUIRRE

West Covina