Ahead of the November general election, the Southern California News Group compiled a list of questions to pose to the candidates who wish to represent you. You can find the full questionnaire below. Questionnaires may have been edited for spelling, grammar, length and, in some instances, to remove hate speech and offensive language.
MORE: Read all the candidate responses in our Voter Guide
Name: Jesse Tweed
Current job title: Pediatrician
Incumbent: Yes
Other political positions held: None
City where you reside: Riverside
Campaign website or social media: www.tweedforrusd.com, Tweed4RUSD (Facebook), Tweed4RUSD (Instagram)
How can the school district best meet the needs of all students, including those learning English, those who need mental health service, those in special education programs and those from low-income backgrounds?
To best meet the needs of all students, the school district should adopt a holistic and equitable approach. First, increase investment in programs that support English Language Learners (ELL) by hiring bilingual educators and providing targeted instruction. Offering after-school tutoring and engaging families through multilingual resources will ensure inclusivity.Mental health services must be prioritized by expanding access to counselors. The school district can develop safe technology and phone use policies.For special education students, it’s vital to enhance individualized support by providing specialized staff and ensuring that teachers are trained in adaptive teaching techniques. Collaboration between general and special education staff can bridge gaps in learning.Students from low-income backgrounds benefit from wraparound services, such as free or reduced meals, transportation and access to technology. Partnering with community organizations can offer further resources, such as tutoring, mentorship and family support programs.By fostering collaboration among educators, families and community resources, the district can create an inclusive and supportive environment that ensures every student, regardless of background or ability, can succeed.
Some school districts have adopted transgender notification policies to notify parents if a student says they are transgender. If your district has such a policy, do you support or oppose it? Why? If yours does not, would you support or oppose such rules? Why?
As a parent, pediatrician and educator, my primary focus is the well being and safety of students. I would oppose a transgender notification policy that may jeopardize the safety and well-being of students by potentially forcing them to come out before they are ready, especially if they fear rejection or harm at home. Schools should be safe spaces where students can express themselves freely and seek support. Requiring schools to notify parents could deter students from being honest with school staff, which might prevent them from accessing critical resources, such as counseling or peer support.
While parental involvement is important in education, a policy like this can violate a student’s privacy and autonomy. Instead of imposing mandatory notification, the district should focus on creating a supportive and inclusive environment where students feel comfortable engaging with trusted adults, including parents, when they are ready. School staff can help guide these conversations, but it should be done in a way that centers the student’s emotional and mental well-being.
A more effective approach would be to foster open, compassionate communication between schools, students and parents while respecting a student’s right to privacy and ensuring their safety at school and home.
What is the biggest issue the school district faces, and how would you address it?
Declining enrollment is a major issue for the school district. To address it, we must take proactive steps to retain and attract students by offering innovative, high-quality educational experiences.First, improving school quality and equity is essential. Prioritizing resources to areas that enhance student achievement. Families are drawn to districts with excellent education, so investing in smaller class sizes, well-trained teachers and student services will make our schools more appealing.Second, expanding specialized programs like STEM, arts and dual-language immersion can meet diverse student needs and attract families looking for unique opportunities. Also making continued investment in career technical education programs in order to give students alternative pathways to careers that may not require traditional college.Third, strengthening family and community engagement can build trust and loyalty. Regular communication, partnerships and community events will encourage families to stay.Finally, offering flexible learning options like online or hybrid models, will ensure our schools meet the needs of today’s students and attract families looking for more diverse educational formats.
Why would you make a good leader, and how would you represent the diverse communities within the school district?
I believe I would make a strong leader for several reasons. First, as a pediatrician, I bring a unique understanding of the challenges children face in our school system. As a parent of two young children, I am deeply invested in the success of our schools. Additionally, as a local business owner, I am professionally tied to the future of our students and community.Effective leaders serve for the right reasons, and I have consistently demonstrated my commitment to the community as a parent, educator, and pediatrician. I possess the critical skills of active listening and empathy, essential for understanding diverse perspectives. I practice fiscal responsibility and stewardship of resources of running a business all while navigating the complexities of our health care system.My leadership experience includes serving in key roles at local hospitals and within professional organizations. I’ve also volunteered on parental oversight committees for local elementary schools and currently serve on the RUSD board, having been appointed after Mr. Hunt’s passing. My dedication and background uniquely position me to guide our district forward.
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