School board candidate forum held at high school
–Five candidates in the race for the Paso Robles School Board participated in a forum at Paso Robles High School Wednesday. About 50 people attended the forum at the school’s multi-purpose room. The event was organized by the Advanced Placement Government Class taught by Mr. Askew.
Two candidates did not take part. Matt McLish left early to host an anniversary celebration at Kennedy Club Fitness. He showed up in a tuxedo with tails and gave an opening statement and then left. Dr. Kathleen Hall is in Mexico.
The two incumbents, Field Gibson and Tim Gearhart, talked about how greatly the district has improved with Superintendent Chris Williams at the helm. They outlined programs Williams has implemented. They said today’s school district is better than it was four years ago, although they admitted the financial condition of the district is a real concern.
The challengers said the district lacks good fiscal management, transparency and healthy teacher morale. One citizen pointed out that Superintendent Chris Williams launched many of his programs using reserve funds. Now, there is no money to continue those programs.
Voters have a clear choice in the November election. The incumbents say they will stay the course. The challengers say they will right the ship before the state takes over the district.
The student moderators concluded the meeting by reminding people to vote.
From left to right, Chris Arend, Lance Gannon, Trustee Tim Gearhart, Trustee Field Gibson, and Stephanie Ulibarri.
Trustees Matt McLish and Dr. Kathleen Hall were absent.
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