Dear Editor:

          This letter is being written in support of the candidacy of Joe Dana who is running for the Area 5 seat of the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District Board of Trustees. I have known Joe for nearly all of the 37 years that he has worked in the Orcutt Union School District. He served as a teacher, assistant vice principal, principal of 6 of its schools and finally as assistant superintendent. The knowledge he gained in those various roles served to help him be one of the most effective educational administrators I have seen.

          In addition to his direct work in a robust educational setting, Joe is very conscientious to ensure that processes and programs are in place which benefit student learning and growth. He leverages his knowledge and participation in the greater Santa Maria community to ensure his students succeed.  As a fellow board member with Joe on the Santa Maria Valley YMCA, I was thrilled by the way in which he was able to help bring swimming lessons to all the 4th grade students in the Orcutt District leveraging Y resources.

          I could go on and on extolling Joe’s many capabilities, but suffice it to say that in my judgement, his educational and administrative knowledge coupled with his caring personality will help him to be a very effective board member for the high school district.  I urge everyone to join me in voting for Joe Dana on November 3rd.

Sincerely,

Mike Gibson