NUSD Race: Candidates Ask for Your Vote

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

FINAL IN A SERIES

THE NATOMAS BUZZ invited the four candidates running for the Natomas Unified school board to participate in a series of articles wherein they answer questions submitted by readers. Today’s question asked,

“Why should voters pick you?”

Here are the answers submitted by the deadline, in the order they were received:

Jag Bains

JAG BAINS
I deeply care about Natomas and am very concerned about the performance of all our schools. I believe Natomas Unified should lead the way in education quality and equality, and I will fight to make that vision a reality. As an engineer and construction manager, I’m accustomed to dealing with complex issues and managing large budgets. I’ll fight to keep resources in the classroom and make sure our teachers have the support they need. The incumbents will ask you to trust in their experience as politicians. I’m asking you to trust in my experience as a parent and husband, and as a person who has benefited from receiving a stellar public education. I want to give back to this community through public service. With your help, I’m ready to fight for a better future for our children. It’s time for real transparency and accountability. I humbly ask for your vote.

Lisa Kaplan

LISA KAPLAN
As your School Board trustee, I have worked tirelessly to ensure our children are afforded numerous opportunities for academic success. In support of our children, I’ve demonstrated leadership and vision leading to increased test scores, fought for improved fiscal accountability; our budget is now balanced, expanded access to before and after school programs, established new college and career programs, and provided safe, clean learning environments for our children in this District. Because of my background as a teaching assistant, education attorney, small business owner and parent, I have a proven track record and know what it takes to keep Natomas on the right track. With my background and knowledge of our district I can provide the necessary leadership to implement the District’s vision moving forward. For all of these reasons, and more of which you can read at www.democracy.com/kaplan4kids, I humbly request your vote for re-election.

Teri Burns

TERI BURNS
I have a proven commitment to the children of this district and experience that makes me a highly valuable member of the governance team. I understand the wide variety of issues involved in operating one of the largest business enterprises in Natomas including personnel, facilities, budgeting, educational options and more. In addition to my work on this Board, education policy has been my professional career for decades. I know the questions to ask to ensure we get the biggest bang for our tax dollars. I am able to build consensus with the board, staff and parents on difficult decisions. I know the law behind district decisions and communicate it clearly to the public. I have a passion for helping all children succeed and meeting their different needs. I am excited about the energy in Natomas around our schools and look forward to continued improvement. I will genuinely appreciate your vote.

Voters within the Natomas Unified School District boundaries may vote for TWO candidates on Election Day.