Dear Friends,

As a 17-year resident of Santa Clarita, I have advocated for good city government both as a private citizen and as a city planning commissioner, reviewing community development over the past 8 years, promoting the arts, and working to preserve open space, among other efforts.

I write to you today not in an official capacity but as an involved citizen who believes we need to elect city council members who are on the job, fully prepared to critically examine proposals and offer new ideas.

This year the city will open public hearings on our new general plan, called One Valley-One Vision. It is a blueprint that will guide Santa Clarita for the next 20 years. The choices made by our city council will have far-reaching effects on traffic, public safety, housing, schools, air quality, open space, and our economy. Our quality of life and the city’s long-term sustainability are at stake.

That is why I have endorsed Mayor Pro-Tem Marsha McLean, former Councilmember TimBen Boydston, and business advocate David Gauny.

Marsha McLean has worked tirelessly for 30 years to protect and preserve our community. Now finishing her second term on the city council, she is on the job every day, responding to constituents’ concerns, and representing our interests on regional and state committees. You can read more about Marsha McLean and contact her at:   reelectmarshamclean.com.

TimBen Boydston earned my respect when he was appointed as an interim city council member. He was a quick-study who thoroughly reviewed reports, conducted independent research, and arrived at meetings prepared to listen to everyone and ask probing questions. TimBen has demonstrated a commitment to good public policy. Find more about TimBen Boydston and contact him through his website:  timben.com

David Gauny is a small business owner and co-chair of the newly created Economic Development Corporation. He founded Smart Growth SCV to promote responsible development on the Henry Mayo medical campus and throughout the city. David offers fresh ideas and energy, and a new vision of leadership that balances city objectives with the needs of constituents. Read more about David Gauny and contact him through his website:  electdavidgauny.com

I support Marsha McLean, TimBen Boydston, and David Gauny because each brings unique insights and skills to the formidable task of city governance. And each of these candidates is willing to engage in respectful, open public discussions.

The Santa Clarita City Council election is April 13th. Whether you cast your ballot by mail or in person, I urge you to vote for these worthy candidates and, if possible, make a contribution to their campaigns on their websites.

Sincerely,

Diane Trautman

The back-to-school nights and parent-teacher conferences are over, but communications between parents and teachers should continue to help children get the best out of each day they spend in the classroom. Building and maintaining good relationships with your children’s teachers will also help parents avoid those scary report cards that make you gasp in horror.

Teachers are eager to partner with supportive parents, but keep in mind they are very busy and their time is limited. Help them get to know you by introducing yourself, if you haven’t already done so. Find out the teacher’s preferred method of communication and send her a note or an email with information that may help her better assist your son in the classroom.

Communicate your questions or concerns, and your appreciation regularly. Share your insights about your child with the teacher. Compliment her when your child makes positive remarks about a lesson. Also, let her know when your daughter seems to be struggling with certain concepts. Perhaps the teacher can take a different approach to the material that benefits the entire class. Maybe there are steps you can take to help your daughter when it’s time to do homework or study for the next test. Tell the teacher if there is an event or transition pending at home, whether pleasant or stressful, so that she will understand your daughter’s frame of mind during that time.

If you have time to volunteer in the classroom, a special skill you can apply to an upcoming lesson, or items to donate, tell the teacher you would like to be of assistance.  Most teachers are thrilled to get helping hands and extra materials for their students.

Treat teachers as you would have them treat you — with kindness and respect. Teach your children to do the same, even when a teacher is having a rough day. We all have those! If your child complains about a teacher, remain neutral until you’ve had a chance to speak with the teacher to get her perspective. Resolving conflicts as they arise will be much easier than dealing with your son’s resentment and resistance both in and out of the classroom throughout the school year.