Whatever the outcome of this race, voters can rest assured that whoever wins, they’ll have a qualified, experienced educator taking the reins. Each of the three candidates is a former educator with extensive experience working in schools. Dr. Michael Way spent 33 years teaching math and computers at the secondary level, as well as teaching at the University of South Florida. Richard Asadoorian has been an elementary, middle and high school teacher and principal and served on the school board in Contra Costa., Calif. Melissa Barnes Dholakia is a former teacher, serves on the board of two California school districts, and runs a consulting business helping K-12 schools.
Each of these candidates will serve the Bend-La Pine board well, but among them, Asadoorian possesses a strength of conviction that can serve students, teachers, parents and the district well. When we asked each candidate to share their beliefs on some of the key issues, including vaccination requirements and the possibility of the school board adopting a climate change resolution, Asadoorian was resolute. Way and Barnes Dholakia shared his perspective that students should be vaccinated in order to attend public schools, but Barnes Dholakia seemed more likely to equivocate, in an apparent effort to appeal to a broader voter base. Similarly, Dholakia wavered on the climate change resolution, when it became clear students may ask the district to take action should a resolution pass.
During the last election, Bend was met with a number of candidates who aimed to be something for everyone. We want candidates who won’t hedge when they’re asked their beliefs on a particular topic. While Way offers a breadth of experience and champions extra-curricular activities that can help students find a sense of belonging, and Barnes Dholakia shows promise as a future elected, we believe Asadoorian is ready to lead right now. Vote Richard Asadoorian for Administrative School District No. 1, Zone 6 At Large.
This article appears in Apr 24 – May 1, 2019.
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Watching the video of the Source Weeklys interviews with candidates for the Zone 6 At-Large seat on the Bend-LaPine School Board has confirmed my belief that Melissa Barnes Dholakia is the most qualified candidate. I looked for the moments when Barnes Dholakia supposedly equivocates on the vaccination issue and wavers on a climate change resolution. I found thoughtful answers, nothing more.
It is unfortunate that the editorial board didnt ask how candidates would address issues raised by students of color and their families. Barnes Dholakia said at the outset of the interview that the district needs to work harder on equity as the school district changes so that all students feel a sense of belonging and diversity is appreciated. She was the only candidate in the interview who raised this concern.
She has consistently raised the issues of equity and inclusion in candidate forums, offering specific ideas for how the district can address the abysmally low number of teachers and staff who are not white. She understands why students of color need to see themselves in front of the classroomand why all students will benefit from more diverse staffing.
Fortunately, many local advocates and organizations that are working on restorative justice, equity, and inclusion in our schools understand that this needs to be a high priority on the school board. That is why they have endorsed and are working to elect Melissa Barnes Dholakia to the Zone 6 At-Large seat on the Bend LaPine School Board.
Michael Funke
I have to disagree with the assertion that Dholakia equivocated about vaccinations and climate change education. Her responses were an acknowledgement that the issues are complex and in as much as that she spent some time exploring the complexities. I like that, it shows a willingness for critical analysis to ensure that quality course of action is taken.
-Brent Edens
Thanks Michael and Brent for your comments, and for taking the time to watch the videos to gain some understanding of our process. As always, each of us has the right to cast our individual votes in this election, and we know our readers find value in engaging with our endorsement process, whether or not they agree with our assessment.
We encourage everyone to seek out a wide range of information when making their decisions in elections, including our videos and endorsements, other endorsements, and local town halls and events where candidates are present!