Rowland Unified Considers Stipend Increase

I have learned that the Rowland Unified Board of Education is being asked to approve a stipend increase.

During this time of utilizing precious dollars for the classroom, it certainly not the time for this or any Board of Education to give themselves a pay raise.

I applaud Board Member, Albert Chang who is going to vote against the stipend increase. Read on in regards to Mr. Chang's letter to Superintendent Maria Ott:

Maria:

I am strongly opposed to the increase of our Board stipends.

When this issue came up last year, I voted against raising the stipend. However, it passed on a 3-2 vote. After that vote, I donated the amount of the increase over the remainder of my term to three of the schools that I had once attended, which was about $100 each.

If this increase could buy just one more book for a school library or could provide a warm meal to some empty stomachs, then I cannot with good conscience receive an increase in my Board stipend.

I believe that School Board Members are public servants, and that this position is our way to ensure that our schools and our communities are well represented. I do not believe that elected public officials should enrich themselves with taxpayer money. This is public service.

If this issue comes about again, I will again strongly oppose it. And I really do encourage my colleagues to do the same.

Thanks,
Albert Chang
Governing Board Member
Rowland Unified School District