Q&A with Atascadero School Board Candidate Tami Gunther
Editor’s note: This is the second in a series of Q&A’s for all candidates running for Atascadero School Board.
Q&A with Atascadero School Board Candidate Incumbent Tami Gunther
What motivates you to become a school board member?
I am motivated by this community which gives generously to support the kids in our schools, and which enables this District to do the good work that is being done for kids every day. I’m grateful to the Atascadero Unified School District for the excellent education my children received, and I want to continue to improve our district for all of our current and future students.
What attributes are essential for successful school board members?
School Board members are trustees of the school district, so first and foremost I think they should have integrity. Trustees are representatives of the community, so it’s important to listen and learn and to be willing to change your opinion when evidence is presented. Most of all they need to keep the best interest of students at the forefront of every decision.
What is your vision for education in the community?
AUSD works hard to maximize the opportunities available to every student. As a district, we strive to produce the top students in the nation and to have every student graduate prepared for college and career.
How does the school board decide what is important?
School Board members are informed by community members, district staff, committees, surveys, current best practices, and community advisory groups. All this information comes together in the decision-making process.
What is your education background?
I’ve lived my whole life in San Luis Obispo County, and my family has been in the Atascadero area for 25 years. I attended San Luis High, Cuesta College, and Santa Barbara Business College. I’ve had the privilege of serving on the California School Boards Association Board of Directors for the past 5 years, and also on the Board of the Tri-County Education Coalition for 10 years.
Do you represent the school system or the community?
School Board members represent our community in setting the direction for the school district. The School Board hires the Superintendent and then works with him and his team to support the work of the District in carrying out the Vision and Mission. The Board represents our community while at the Board table and represents our District and Public Education when we are advocating.
What have you accomplished in regards to school-related situations that make you a good candidate?
I am a strong supporter of the Arts, Vocational Education, and community engagement. I have been advocating in Sacramento for many years, sharing information with legislators so that their decisions are informed by what we need locally. I am most proud of being a part of the district’s first Special Education Parent Advisory Committee and the work this group has done over the years.
Can you comment on recent disciplinary issues within the school district, and how would you resolve them?
No.
What are some of the issues facing the Atascadero School District?
Atascadero School District is very well managed financially, but the biggest challenge facing our district and all districts in California is funding. Safety is a priority in all decisions and is an ongoing and important issue. Looking into the future, we need to plan for technology upgrades which require ongoing investment and can be expensive.
