THE RACE FOR HUNTINGTON BEACH UNION HIGH SCHOOL BOARD

Angelique Flores

Huntington Beach resident Debbie Holmes wants to ensure all district

students are in an atmosphere that is safe and well-balanced, with

knowledge-based critical thinking. They also should have an opportunity

to attend the school of their choice, she said.

“I am prepared to take on the challenge of this important position

that directly effects the lives of children and am prepared to give the

leadership necessary to ensure our schools are brought up to the

standards they should be,” she said.

Holmes has served as the ambassador chairwoman for the Fountain Valley

Chamber of Commerce and the secretary of the Women’s Council on Realtors

for two years.

The most important issue facing the district, she said, is to assure

the community that the schools provide all students with an environment

that teaches them to read, write, speak and think. These skills will

allow them to succeed in college or the work force.

“I expect exemplary performance and a high level of professionalism

from our teaching staff,” Holmes said. “This means that staff training

and teacher support are priorities.”

Holmes attended Whittier College and has also earned a license as a

fire-life insurance agent.

BIO: DEBBIE HOLMES

* Age: 48

* Family: Daughter Amanda* Community Activism: Here’s Hope, a shelter

for the homeless; runs Vintage Escrow Inc., which has been in Huntington

Beach for 15 years; and foster parent for 20 years

* Contact: (714) 968-7399 and holmespeters@yahoo.com

DEBBIE HOLMES ON:

* THE DISTRICT’S BIGGEST CHALLENGES:”Negotiating teacher and support

staff contracts beginning spring 2001 will provide us an opportunity to

build solid partnerships and demonstrate our commitment to work together

in the best interest of the students.”

Another challenge, Holmes added, is to develop sound fiscal

responsibility, with the intent of eliminating the necessity of bonds in

direct response to concerns among community members.

“By evaluating existing budget expenditures carefully, we can

safeguard against administrative waste and misused funds. Aligning

curriculum with the state’s standard, as well as preparing students to

take standardized tests, including the new exit exam, is an ongoing

challenge.”

* PLANS TO DEMOLISH BUILDING NO. 300:

“The facts clearly show Building No. 300 is sinking.”

Holmes said more input from the community and staff is needed before a

final decision is made.

“The timeline for completing the project should be minimal and the

displacement of children kept at a minimum. The district must involve the

staff at Fountain Valley High School.”

The entire operation depends on cooperation, Holmes said.

“It appears too many decisions are being made at the district office

by administrators, without appropriate communication.”