CATHARINE BAKER
Attorney Catherine Baker provided two reasons she is running for the assembly seat, her children. "Like any parent, I want to provide excellent education, a healthy economy and financial stability for the next generation. I don't think we have done that the last several years. I intend to be part of making it happen for the next generation and for all of us."
Her main focus is on education and howwell the policies under which schools operate work. She declares, "California doesn't have problems with its education standards. The lack of performance relates to how the schools are operated."
For example, she says, an outstanding teacher is paid the same as one who is not as good, yet has been teaching for the same length of time. "The seniority rules are bad for teachers, and bad for children. They have nothing to do with performance. I know of no other career where someone can achieve permanent status in such a short time," she stated. She wants to see a change in those rules.