As a high school teacher, I have a distinct perspective on the state of California's educational system. We are the richest state in the richest nation in the world, yet our public schools rank 48th in per-student fund allocation. Meanwhile, the No Child Left Behind legislation passed by Congress is hopelessly under-funded and the mandated standardized testing does not take into account ESL students and those with learning disabilities.

We need a supportive rather than a punitive policy to improve our public education, which is the bedrock of California's prosperity and leadership in the modern world. I wholeheartedly support public education and stand against vouchers or any other policies designed to contract out education to private or religious schools. These funds would be of more use to us if they were invested wisely to correct the weaknesses that currently exist in our classrooms.

• I support reducing class size.
  
• I believe in helping teachers to continue to improve their skills.
  
• I believe in encouraging technological initiatives to improve the quality of education while reducing costs.
  
• I believe in creating incentives to keep teachers in the classroom!
  
• I believe in providing incentives and an environment for students to stay in school.

I have experienced the educational systems of not just California and the United States, but also that of other countries in Europe and the Middle East. Therefore, I will go to Sacramento with a diverse background in public education, an open mind and a strong determination to make the necessary budget adjustments and reforms to make our educational system vibrant once again so that the future of this Golden State is bright!