BUSD Food Services Director Karen Candito and Board President John Selawsky accept the Golden Carrot Award for innovative and improved lunch programs.
accomplishments
John Selawsky is a trusted, experienced Boardmember and the current Board President. He has served during times of fiscal hardship and state and federal funding uncertainty, and yet has helped guide Berkeley Unified to impressive improvements and gains. State API scores have steadily improved for all our schools during John’s tenure, and in fact 7 of our 11 elementary schools have hit the 800 level, a score considered excellent. Two other elementary schools are within 15 points of that coveted 800 score.
Restored Fiscal Integrity to the District. In 2000, when John was first elected to his first term, the District experienced a series of financial problems, culminating in a Board approved three-year recovery plan. Now in 2004, the Board has passed a balanced budget and the District is back on solid financial ground.
Successfully Defended the District's School Assignment Plan in Superior Court. A very favorable ruling puts the District in strong position to successfully defend any further legal challenges. John was the strongest proponent on the Board for a legal defense of the plan.
Improved Traffic Safety at Schools. Successfully worked with community members, City staff,police department, and District staff to create and formalize school traffic safety plans, street signage, enforcement, and communication about issues of parking, drop-off and pick-up, pedestrian and bicycle safety, and safe zones around our school sites.
Maintained School Music Programs. Worked with the Music Committee and BAESC (Berkeley Arts in Education Steering Committee) to maintain middle school band and orchestra, the Art/Music Coordinators position, and other essential art and music program needs.
