Elections in the Foothills/Glendale Unified School Board

The Crescenta Valley is gearing up for the April 7 election of school board members and part of CV will also vote in the Glendale City Council election. The Valley Sun submitted questions to each concerning issues specific to the foothills. This week, we print the responses received from school board candidates; on April 3 we will present the City Council candidate Q & A.

Chakib “Chuck”

Sambar

Incumbent

What do you feel has been your most important contribution as a sitting school board member?

As a resident, Crescenta Valley High administrator and 12 year school board member, I share our parents’ values, hopes and aspirations. I believe in high expectations and achievement, skilled teaching, fiscal integrity, school safety and collaboration.

Contributions:

• Voted to renovate, and rebuild all valley schools;

• Wrote commentaries, communicated and listened;

• Awarded scholarships and graduation diplomas to thousands;

• Lobbied for school funding;

• Supported CV CAN, July 4th, CV Chamber, Relay for Life and others.

All valley schools are California Distinguished and Crescenta Valley, Clark Magnet and Rosemont are National Blue Ribbon Schools.

There is disharmony between the school board and teachers union. What steps do you feel should be taken to remedy this situation?

My commitment is to encourage the review of policies and procedures of collective bargaining, communication and conflict resolution. I will encourage both sides to be attentive, respectful, responsible and willing to listen, collaborate, and make the best decisions for children and employees. I have always reached out to build positive bridges and to collaborate with teachers, parents, staff, community and students. It is critical that there is genuine and respectful collaboration among all stakeholders.

What changes do you foresee (staff reduction/layoffs, program cuts) due to the present and anticipated future budget?