From Daryl Flynn, Orange County School Board

Note: This is NOT an official communication from the Orange County School Board. This message contains the personal thoughts and opinions of Daryl Flynn.


Dear Friends,

Early voting starts today, Oct.20th. Several people have asked me for my opinion regarding the "Special Referendum" that's listed as the last item on the general election ballot. The special referendum calls for the Orange County School Board to be expanded to include an eighth board member that will be elected county-wide and serve as the chair for a four year term (the exact ballot language is below).

I, personally, do not support the elected chair proposal and will be voting no. This proposal has not originated from the parents, teachers or principals but rather by special interest groups. It's more government and I fear it'll politicize education in Orange County more than it already is.

An elected chair position could also eventually compete with the superintendent's position. Some say that school board members are afraid to lose their power, but it's also the power of the individual districts that is at risk, too. A position that gives two votes (in the event of a tie) to one board member has the potential to give three votes to one area of the county.

For a list of pros and cons go to the League of Women Voters website at www.lwvoc.org. Another site to review is www.noelectedchair.com. (For the "pro side" go to www.letusvoteorange.com.)