Former School Board members Marla Wolkowitz, Madeline Ehrlich and Jessica Beagles-Roos have announced their support for Laura Chardiet, candidate for election to the Board in the Nov. 8 election.
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From left, Ms. Wolkowitz, Ms. Ehrlich, Ms. Chardiet and Ms. Beagles-Roos
Each of these latest endorsers has her own long and rich history of devotion to Culver City schools, and all said they have been impressed by Ms. Chardiet’s commitment to the wide range of District schools.
Madeline Ehrlich notes that Ms. Chardiet’s work on the Council PTA has been valuable because it has given her knowledge and insight into schools across the District. Ms. Ehrlich believes that the depth and range of Ms. Chardiet’s background as a classroom teacher, an administrator and an active, involved parent with two children in Culver City schools, makes her the most qualified candidate. “Laura is knowledgeable, energetic and she feels the heartbeat of what’s going on in the District,” Ms. Ehrlich says.
Ms. Wolkowitz notes that when she was on the board, the five members had very different personalities, but only one mantra: “How is this going to affect the kids?” She is confident that Ms. Chardiet will keep her focus on the students. But having served on the board, Ms. Wolkowitz knows that’s not enough.
An effective School Board member needs to have the ability to create coalitions and foster a collaborative spirit, because the majority rules, she said. “No matter how brilliant you are,” Ms. Wolkowitz explains, “you need two more votes to accomplish anything.” Ms. Ehrlich agrees. She knows that whether creating the Healthy Food Expo at La Ballona Elementary School, or leading a delegation to Sacramento or heading up the Council PTA, Ms. Chardiet has shown herself to be a team leader.
Ms. Beagles-Roos concurs, saying that Ms. Chardiet “has demonstrated the ability to lead by working collaboratively. She will foster a positive, supportive culture in the District.” “Laura also is a very good listener,” Ms. Ehrlich adds. “She’s very adept at critical thinking. She is always willing to look at innovative, creative ways to make our schools better.”
Ms. Chardiet’s commitment to strengthening CCUSD’s language immersion programs, along with the other programs which have made Culver City schools special, is of importance to Ms. Ehrlich, who has continued her active support of language immersion years after her own children graduated from our schools.
On Sunday, Oct. 2, the community is invited to meet Ms. Chardiet at a Dessert and Coffee, 6:30 to 8 o’clock, hosted by Marla Wolkowitz and Madeline Ehrlich, at the home of Ms. Wolkowitz, 10811 Ocean Dr., Culver City.
For campaign information, see Laura4culvercitykids.com
