Gaines runs for school board, Schulz out
By Stephanie Bertholdo bertholdo@theacorn.com

Jill Gaines

Two seats are opening up at the Las Virgenes Unified School District Board of Education, but only one incumbent has filed papers for reelection.

Board President Terilyn Finders is seeking her third term on the education panel, while Pat Schulz is stepping down after eight years in office.

Schulz said she was ready to "take a breather" from the school board, but was pleased with her accomplishments.

The filing period opened Mon., July 16 and will close on Aug. 10 at 5 p.m. Prospective candidates can obtain forms through the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder's office at (562) 462-2137.

Finders filed her papers for reelection Monday.

"I seek reelection hoping that my eight years of experience on the Board of Education will help turn the many changes our district faces, both in state and the local pressures, into positive change for students," Finders said. "While I am proud of my accomplishments over the last eight years, I believe the best is yet to come for LVUSD."

Also running is Jill Gaines, a resident of Calabasas.

Gaines, the chief financial officer at her husband's law firm, Gaines & Stacey LLP, is a former teacher who cochaired the campaign for Measure G, a $128million school bond initiative.

`"Working to help pass Measure G reinforced my belief that we have a great school district and my desire to remain committed and involved in our schools," Gaines said. "Education funding is always a top concern. As a school board member I would work to obtain every possible dollar for our schools and to ensure that every dollar is wisely spent."

To run for school board, a candidate must be a registered voter and live within the school district's boundaries. The district serves students in Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Agoura Hills and portions of Westlake Village and Bell Canyon.

Board members meet twice a month and receive $425.

For further information, call Kimberly Rodriguez at (818) 597-7303.