Editorial: Our recommendations for State Board of Education

Monday, Oct. 23, 2006 | 7:36 a.m.

T he 10-member state Board of Education sets policy for the Nevada Department of Education, which establishes statewide academic standards, ensures equitable funding for the state's 17 school districts and oversees charter schools. There are races in Districts 2, 4 and 5.

We were impressed with both candidates in the District 2 race.

As an investigator for the attorney general's office, Anthony Ruggiero is familiar with state agencies and their missions. He says he will bring an independent voice to the position and he pledges to personally research the issues before the board, rather than just rely on staff.

Kevin Davis is a retired systems engineer with a long-standing interest in education. His is a voice for more parental involvement in public schools, more community support for teachers and more analysis of programs that are in place to improve public schools.

Both candidates would serve well as education leaders in Nevada. Our endorsement in this race is extended equally to both candidates.

Our choice for the District 4 seat is the incumbent, Cindy Reid, who holds a master's degree in education. A former teacher in the Clark County School District, she currently teaches English at the Charleston campus of the Community College of Southern Nevada. We agree with her that schools in Nevada are not properly funded. She would like to see per-pupil funding raised to meet the national average.

The Sun endorses Cindy Reid.

Greg Nyberg Nance, a candidate in District 5, supports more funding for the state's class-size reduction effort and says English-language learners need more course materials in their native language until their English becomes proficient.

While many issues the board deals with will be new to Nance - he has attended only one board meeting - we believe he has the potential to be an involved and informed member of this important board.

The Sun endorses Greg Nyberg Nance.