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John T. Selawsky and Priscilla Myrick

None of the candidates we interviewed who are hoping to fill the two spots on the Berkeley Unified School District school board are unqualified for the job. All three possess dedication to improving the public school system and a passion for education. Even when looking at the specifics, any of the following three candidates would bring their valuable expertise to the school board.

Having served on the school board since 2000, John Selawsky's major strength is indeed experience. When the board faced financial difficulties a few years ago, Selawsky helped rein in the budget. And with the whims of the economy today, it's important to have the guidance of someone who's been through such a trial. When asked about No Child Left Behind, Selawsky refrained from complaining about the act's flaws. Instead, he addressed the need to cultivate a change in the way students view standardized tests since he said the act isn't going to be repealed anytime soon.

From her involvement in the classroom and in the WriterCoach Connection program, Priscilla Myrick is no stranger to the needs of schools. But it's her budgeting talents that give her a boost over her opponents. Having been charged with the finances of a bioscience company and with Berkeley Unified School District budget oversight, we are confident in her capabilities in a crisis.

Beatriz Leyva-Cutler would bring another set of important skills to the school board. Stressing the importance of community involvement, Leyva-Cutler notes the importance of parent liaisons in the education process. Her goal to recruit diverse teachers also reflects her understanding of the importance of appreciating differences in the world today, which is key to students in this generation.

Toya Groves did not respond to our interview requests.

Although Leyva-Cutler's vision is impressive, being able to grapple with an unruly budget is essential in these times. Vote for John Selawsky and Priscilla Myrick for Berkeley Unified School District school board.