Endorsements

I am honored to be endorsed by fellow parents, community members, and the following:

	The Independent
	Livermore Education Association, Representing the Teachers of Livermore
	California School Employees Association, Chapter 334

"I can tell you without a doubt that Dave Vonheeder is an extremely ethical, practical, caring individual. I feel blessed to have him in our community of parents and I think Livermore can benefit from having someone of his caliber on our school board." - fellow parent, Paige Kuempel

"We are honored to call Dave a friend. It comes down to community and good neighbors!" - fellow parents and neighbors, Michael & Allegra Williams

Q&A

Q&A with Dave Vonheeder, as published in The Independent, by Carol Graham

• What is your biographical background: education, interest, community involvement, work history?

  Education; Graduated Alpha Gamma Sigma, Las Positas College, A.S - Horticulture; Graduated with Honors, UC Berkeley, B.A. - Landscape Architecture, Minor - City Planning; Certificated, Las Positas College, Accounting Technician Interests; spending time with friends and family, volunteering, learning, travel, architecture, history, Impressionist art, classic cars, college football Community Involvement; Active school volunteer at Lawrence Elementary - School Site Council, Room Parent, Book Fair Chairperson, Library Parent, to name just a few school site roles. Committee Member on LVJUSD LCAP (Local Control and Accountability Plan) Committee, Representative to LVJUSD PCIC (Parent Club Information Council), Active Blood Donor (49 pints to date), Fundraiser through charitable 5K races, Little League Field Prep, Fusion Game Monitor. Work History: Currently a stay-at-home parent. Previously, almost 20 years in the irrigation industry most recently as a store manager and then a sales and marketing manager.

• Why are you running for the school board? What do you hope to accomplish if elected?

  I am running for school board because I feel there is a lack of elected representation for young families in the school district. Given my insight in both district-wide and site-level operations, along with strong relationships I have with both staff and parents alike, I have the perspective needed to help lead LVJUSD. I'd like to see the district be more proactive with resource planning for the future growth of Livermore, something our neighbors have struggled with. I'd like to establish more dynamic and productive relationships with other local agencies such that Livermore families are better served by all agencies representing them. I'd like to see the district enhance its social-emotional learning objectives and better support children in today's challenging world, specifically with the demands social media places on them.

• What unique skill would you bring to the school board?

  My unique skill is that I have tireless commitment to helping others; friends, family, teachers, students, strangers. I appreciate the opportunity to serve others with my mind, hands and heart. I have an education from top-rated academic institutions and have proudly worked in a blue-collar industry, at times bridging a cultural divide. I use strong communication skills, empathy, and sound judgment to help people thrive.

• Please comment on your views of the following - international baccalaureate, charter schools, career planning, and common core:

  I am proud of LVJUSD's IB program and would like to continue investment into it. Given the current lack of effective laws governing charter school finances, oversight, and accountability, I am not in favor of charter schools. I believe that career planning should continue to have a place in our high schools, as many students opt to enter into the workforce after high school, LVJUSD should make sure they are equipped to thrive just as much as those students entering college. Common core is now a commonplace aspect of our schools, students are learning in different ways to help them succeed and parents are adapting.

• Do you think Livermore schools are safe and secure? Would you favor arming teachers?

  I do think Livermore schools are safe and secure. Though, one can never be complacent and I see the effort put in by district administration to continually monitor and improve our schools so all students can learn in a safe yet welcoming environment. No, I am not in favor of arming teachers.

• At one point, the district was asked to become a sanctuary district. What is your view or support of the idea?

  I support the district's "All Kids Are Our Kids" concept.

• Do you believe the arts are important along with science, technology, engineering and math?

  Yes, I do. I have sons that participate in orchestra, painting, and dance activities. I believe participation in "the arts" is an important part of child development, as studies have shown.

• If the budget calls for cuts, which programs would you cut, or would you increase class sizes?

  Such actions would need context. A thoughtful examination of relevant matters at the time and careful consideration with stakeholders would be necessary.

• Do you think the district has done enough for the minority population?

  "Enough" is a highly subjective term. I think those in education are always striving to do more for those they serve, however, that is done against the backdrop of finite resources. That being said, I see examples across our district of students in our "minority populations" succeeding and doing amazing things.

Donations

Yard signs, fliers, business cards, and other printed materials cost money. If you would like to donate electronically to my campaign, it would be greatly appreciated! Please note that for any contributions over $100, our committee will need to follow up with you to receive some additional information for FPPC compliance. Thank you!!

Yard Sign - $10

Car Magnet - $10

Yard Sign & Car Magnet - $20

General Donation