May 2, 2008

Alvarez drops from council race, endorses Herrera

Editor,
I write to share that I have withdrawn my candidacy for City Council and to thank you for your kind support of my candidacy. In early March, I experienced a detached retina, and while my campaign motivation initially continued, the length of time and care required for my retina to heal has since become apparent. In addition, my time campaigning paradoxically helped crystallize the vision I have for my contributions as a public servant. Ultimately, my heart remains centered and committed to public education and our local schools.

Sylvia Alvarez (left) and Rose Herrera

Right now, public education is facing enormous challenges. Within District 8, many of our school districts have made severe budget cuts because of the state deficit. Evergreen School District has cut over 7 million dollars and used its reserve in response to the state’s ongoing deficit. Unless the Governor produces a viable solution, the only place left to cut will be in the classroom, even though we have worked very hard to protect our classrooms over the last 6 years. This is the work I plan to continue. I know with confidence that this is work that our community is also deeply committed to - providing a quality education for all its children.

In the coming months, many decisions will be made by our legislators that will affect the education of our children. Please join Councilman Cortese and community members of District 8 on May 21 to tell legislators how the budget deficit will affect the future of our children and that of California.

I have endorsed Rose Herrera and will be working to get her elected.

Respectfully,
Sylvia Alvarez,
President Evergreen School Board