PUSD candidates Gutschow, Davis and Zane endorsed by teachers

Incumbents Todd Gutschow and Marc Davis and challenger T.J. Zane on Tuesday were endorsed by the Poway Federation of Teachers for the Nov. 4 school board election.

“We held 20-minute interviews, reviewed candidates’ websites and/or information made available online, and then had a thorough discussion about each candidate,” said Candy Smiley, president of the PFT. “In making our endorsement decisions, we look for candidates who are knowledgeable, experienced and focused first and foremost on academic success for all students. This year, we specifically looked for a commitment to maintain the existing collaborative relationship between Superintendent John Collins and the teachers’ professional organization, the Poway Federation of Teachers. We have a partnership of trust and a shared commitment to student learning.”

The PFT Executive Board interviewed all eight candidates running for the three board member seats, Smiley said.

Regarding Gutschow, Smiley said “After serving eight years on the board, we know Todd has a strong knowledge base and possesses the qualities we value in a board member,” Smiley said. “Todd’s commitment and belief that public school is the single most important gift we can give our children and our community is the vision we want for our board.”

Davis is seeking a second four-year term. “After four successful years, Marc brings the necessary leadership experience to the board,” Smiley said. “Like Todd, we know Marc’s work and his deep commitment to students, teachers, and the community. Marc’s fiscal knowledge combined with his thoughtful and balanced approach is a plus for our board.”

Both Gutschow and Davis live in Poway. Zane is a Rancho Penasquitos resident.

“Mr. Zane has a solid understanding of the policymaking role of the school board,” Smile said. “His desire is to empower educators and schools to implement board policies and achieve academic results.

Smiley noted that Zane’s board experience includes: the San Diego Taxpayers Association, Rancho PenasquitosTown Council, PUSD Los Penasquitos Academy, PUSD No Excuses University, Rancho Family YMCA and the San Diego-Imperial Council of Boys Scouts of America.

“T.J.’s breadth of board experience combined with his interest in and support of our students adds significant value to our existing board.”