Shaun Henderson 
Incumbent

          If re-elected, my goals would be to continue improving student safety, supporting academic achievement, and ensuring responsible use of district resources. I would work with the current Trustee Board, administrators, teachers, staff, parents, and community to maintain secure campuses, strengthen student behavior and support systems, and continue reviewing safety practices.     
        Academically, I would support expanded learning opportunities in reading, writing, and mathematics, additional support for students who need it, and opportunities for advanced students to reach their goals. I would also continue supporting Career and Technical Education, Early College opportunities, and responsible use of technology and AI.

          My decision to run is influenced by my belief that we must continue providing students with a safe, positive learning environment while maintaining strong educational programs and being responsible with taxpayer dollars. Having served as a Board Trustee, I believe I can continue contributing experience and a collaborative approach to these challenges while working with this current Board of Trustees. I love supporting our students, staff and schools.

          I bring more than eight years of School Board Trustee experience and more than 33 years in our community. I completed the Masters in Governance Program and have professional experience in management, human resources, financial and operational management, and the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing industries. My three children attended OUSD schools, and I served as a school site council member and school volunteer. I have also served our community through the YMCA, Rotary Club, OCAF, the American Heart Association, and coaching youth sports.

David Morgan
Rental Property Manager

           My child attends school in the Orcutt School District and I want the same things you want for your children: a quality education in a safe environment. However, our teachers and other school employees have had their concerns dismissed or ignored by school leaders and they want to see real change in how the board operates.

          Less than 50% of our graduates test at or above grade level for English and math. Extra resources should be focused on grades K-6 to combat this deficiency. Teachers and staff should be allowed to enforce academic and behavioral standards without regard for how it affects the district’s standing in state reporting. Combination classes should be eliminated whenever possible and instructional time for history and civics should be restored after being cut by over 1/3. Students and staff should be protected from other students displaying violence/severe behavioral issues.
          Parental concerns should be addressed in a forthright and transparent manner.

         I am endorsed by the Orcutt teachers’ union and the classified school employees’ union and I will invite them to provide input when crafting new policies.

          I have 30 years of business experience including negotiating contracts, managing projects, and budgeting. I have served on a county commission. I have gone through the credentialing process to teach biology so I understand the challenges of being a teacher. If elected, I will ask tough questions and discuss the answers in open meetings. I will not take the salary offered to board members nor vote to increase it.