Opinion: Rafner will bring unity, foresight, unbiased presence to school board

By Melanie Carmosino and Rita Macdonald

Parents, Del Mar Union School District

We had the unique opportunity to get to know Doug Rafner while serving on the Del Mar Union School District Strategic Planning Financial Task Force. Since many of you haven’t had a chance to get to know Doug by working with him over a 12-week period we would like to share some of Doug’s traits we believe make him the best candidate for everyone’s kids. We found Doug to be a good listener, thoughtful, intelligent, logical and articulate.

Doug was the parent representative from Ashley Falls and we represented parents from Del Mar Heights and Del Mar Hills. There has been much controversy about East vs. West politics, but Doug was not about location politics. Doug truly cares about all the kids that make up the district and making decisions that represent the best interests of all the district’s kids. Doug does not shy away from making difficult decisions. He’s the type of person who will not support politically expedient choices, but choices that are in the best interest of all our children.

One other key area that differentiates Doug is his knowledge of the district budget gained through his efforts on the DMUSD Strategic Planning Financial Task Force. After spending 12 weeks combing through the DMUSD budget looking for areas to save money and produce new revenue, Doug understands the district’s finances. And his knowledge is key to our children maintaining the excellent education they all enjoy.

Doug has exhibited his dedication to the children of the district through active participation in the 7-11 efforts, board meetings, task forces, education foundation support and many other tangible and intangible ways. Throughout his various efforts, Doug has demonstrated sound logic, creativity and innovative thinking, intestinal fortitude, solid partnering skills, and the patience and resolve to seek out the right answer to issues.

It is for these reasons that we support and recommend the strong support of Doug Rafner for the board position he is seeking. He will undoubtedly bring unity, foresight and an unbiased presence to the DMUSD board.