Committee to Re-elect Ralph R.

Hernandez Buffalo Board of Education, West District 127 Livingston Street, Buffalo, New York 14213 716-864-4983 or 716-881-1409 hernandez239@msn.com

Stonewall Democrats Questionnaire Response April 19, 2013

1. At this critical time, when the state is projecting deficits and the recent federal Sequester has cost the District $2.4 million in lost aid there is no substitute for experience under these challenging times. I feel it is important that the board maintains continuity and momentum, and to continue its focus on the future. I also seek reelection because Id like to finish what we started. Much still needs to be done and I believe our Buffalo Public Schools are poised to continue tremendous improvements in serving our community and its students. Our graduations rates are, our dropout rates are down, our suspension rates are down and ELA and Math scores are improving. I would be honored to continue doing what I have been given the privilege of doing for nine years; representing parents, taxpayers, and children on the Board of Education and voting on meaningful legislation that improves the quality of education for all the children in Buffalo.

2. Like SD of WNY, I too support efforts to prohibit discrimination against the LGBT population. I too believe it is important to build coalitions with other organizations and communities that support your mission, particularly, in the city. Is important to reach out to underrepresented and diverse groups like the SD of WNY to bring about greater harmony and understanding of the LGBT population. Further, in the interest of full disclosure, SD of WNY are well-respected grassroots organization with significant influence over the electorate. 3. The three issues I believe are currently resonating with the general public are: a) Implement a comprehensive district-wide truancy reduction program-our children will not learn or graduate on time if they are not in school; chronic absenteeism is a major factor in low graduation rates in this city. I have spoken to my colleagues and Superintendent Brown about using a portion of Race-to-the-Top money and School Improvement Grants for this purpose. I have advocated for the return of attendance teachers and will continue to do so moving forward. b) Settle the teacher back pay and engage all unions in Collective Bargaining Agreements. The longer we continue to appeal lower court rulings supporting salary steps reimbursement for teachers retroactive to July 2007, the more difficult it will be to reach a new contract agreement with the BTF. As recent as two weeks ago, I spoke to my colleagues about supporting a retirement incentive package that we hope will pave the way for at least 100 new generation of teachers.

c) Improve overall student grade average and graduation rate; continue to lower suspension rates, lower dropout rates; improve long-term educational results for students with special needs and English Language Learners and improve communication among families from different countries. 4. I support: a) The fundamental right for LGBT Americans to marry and have families, b) Civil union and equal protection under the 14th amendment c) The right of LGBT Americans to adopt a child I have not, at this point, moved forward with any specific action in defense of these civil rights issues. However, I am willing to stand side-by-side with the LGBT community in defense of these issues. 5. 6. 7. 8. Yes. Yes. Yes. I would encourage members of the LGBT community to run for public office. Id be more than happy to conduct a workshop on getting involved and running for the Board of Education. Yes. In fact, I introduced the Resolution (see attach) December 30, 2010 (first district in the state to comply) in support of the Dignity-for-All-Student Act. Yes. From parents, students, teachers and administrators, everyone has a role in creating an inclusive school climate. The district has a responsibility to prepare teachers and staff members to support students who are coping with the emotional side effects of bullying or harassment. Many of these students have reported increased anxiety, depression, and in some cases, increased thoughts about suicide. Yes. A gay-straight alliance club promotes a safe environment for all students and it allows the straight students to learn about homophobia and gender identity. Yes. All student must be treated equal and if a gay/lesbian student wants to bring his/her same sex partner to the dance, why not. No. Agencies receiving public funds must adhere to laws which provide equal opportunities to all persons regardless of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, disability, or any other protected classification. Yes. It has to start with a conversation. As parents and caregivers, we play an important role in dispelling myths, challenging stereotypes, and expressing the idea that everyone deserves respect regardless of their race, gender, ethnicity, religion, or sexual orientation. As children grow, there will be many teachable moments where values and beliefs about sexual orientation can be discuss. With young children two books come to mind: Daddy's Roommate by Michael Willhoite and Heather Has Two Mommies by Lesla Newman.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

Yes. I canvased several schools for this application and it is my understanding that we have many LBGT parents involved in their childs education in the district. Yes. I have always advocated on behalf of all children-no exceptions. As for accommodations, I see no need for any special accommodations, LGBT students will always be afforded the same rights and privileges. Yes. I believe teachers and administrators must be truthful in the classroom. If both student and teacher approve of the discussion and the teacher believes it is right to discuss the out factor with his/her students, I would not object nor vote for any policy that would interfere or prohibit that teacher-student conversation to take place. Yes. Isnt this the same as the NYS Marriage Equality Act? No.

16.

18.

19. 20.

PART TWO: On GENDA: Support