Sierra Sun: As we head into 2012, how would you describe the state of education in California?

Robert Leri: “From a budget perspective, the state of California is still in dire conditions in the area of education. Districts throughout the state are feeling the impact, reductions of transportation funds and things like that. Our concern is what's coming in the future. Bottom line is it hurt us, it hurts teachers, it hurts students and it hurts communities.”
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Sun: In your initial research of TTUSD, how would you rate it compared to other school districts in California?

RL: “I think the Tahoe Truckee Unified School District is an amazing school district, particularly with the offerings and the programs that are available for students. I think that while it's been extremely difficult, (officials) have implemented reductions thoughtfully while considering the best interests of the kids.”
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Sun: What's your view on the strategy of a school district or other public entity to keep a high amount of reserves, rather than using that money on teacher salaries and programs in the now?

RL: “I am essentially in favor of maintaining strong reserves. I think the district has been able to do that well and has been able to better weather reductions over time than other districts. I think we have to acknowledge that (TTUSD) has been using some of the reserves to mitigate reductions, and they've done that very carefully. We've had a similar situation in Arcadia to use reserves to help with the budget shortfalls imposed on us by Sacramento while also maintaining reserves over time in anticipation of future cuts.”
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Sun: Given the context of the current recession, and the fact just about every public entity is struggling and making cuts, how can a school district effectively work with a teachers union to come to a happy medium?

RL: “I think Tahoe Truckee has worked effectively in the recent past with the employee association. Helping maintain a collaborative relationship while keeping in mind the best interest of the kids is the way to move through these difficult negotiations.”
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Sun: What are some of the good things happening right now with TTUSD?

RL: “I'm very impressed with AP offerings at both high schools and the offerings in general for the students — it's really quite remarkable for a community of this size. What I also notice is those programs are supported by the community with the passage of Measure A. That says a lot about a community that has repeatedly stepped up and supported education through a parcel tax. Community collaboration is a key thing.
“I also like that there is a dual immersion program in place. Dual immersion is a personal passion of mine. It's one of my fundamental beliefs as an educator — preparing students for the 21st century by having the skills needed to communicate in multiple languages.”
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Sun: There has been a growing number of charter schools and advanced private learning academies in the Lake Tahoe area over the past 3-5 years. How would you, as superintendent, spread the message to parents that going to our public schools is the right choice?

RL: “I think that can be done through a series of outreach and information meetings with the community, extolling the virtues that exist here. I honestly have not had a lot of time to learn about the alternative education settings. But knowing what I know, there is such a plethora of options here that parents should seriously consider, and (TTUSD) shouldn't be ignored.”
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Sun: Based on what you've learned so far of TTUSD, how would you describe the levels of student diversity here?

RL: “Addressing the needs of all students is paramount, and that includes our English Language Learners. I feel we need to address those needs appropriately with programs that provide opportunities to gain the English language skills that are needed. I know there's been quite a bit of work done here in working on the English language program ... I spent a lot of time with that in Arcadia; there is a fairly high EL population there as well. One of the more important things is working with the parents, for them to feel they want to be a part of their child's education.”
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Sun: Why do you think families should move to the Lake Tahoe area so their children can go to school here?

RL: “I think the schools are impressive, and the opportunities available are remarkable for a community this size. Opportunities for sports and extracurriculars, and the ability to be in a natural environment that's unparalleled — that should be a draw in its own.”
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Sun: How important are athletics and extracurricular activities to a child's education?

RL: Whenever you look at a well-rounded education, extracurriculars and athletics are very important, and I'm committed that we continue to offer those. I look forward to standing on the sidelines of football games. It's one of the highlights of my job — watching our kids play.”
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Sun: Why are you a good fit for this job?

RL: “I think that I'm a good fit for it because I come here with a focus on students learning and students learning every day. One of my strengths, if you will, is the ability to work collaboratively. The work that's been done here on Professional Learning Communities by Steve Jennings, and the community support here, it speaks volumes, and it's one of the thing that really drew me to this position, to be a part of that.”