MEET DR. RICARDO HERRERA
As a college professor, I have seen firsthand the gaps in basic preparation among recent high school graduates, particularly in the natural and social sciences. To enact real change in the Greenfield Union School District, we must support students from an earlier age—starting with early childhood education (for 3- and 4-year-olds). Teachers, students and parents can count on me as a steadfast ally in the pursuit of academic excellence.
Parents and taxpayers can trust that I will continue to be a fiscally responsible board member. I don't believe that simply throwing more money at a problem is the solution. While our district has significant financial and staffing needs—including maintenance, repairs, and additional personnel—I will meticulously analyze where the greatest needs lie. When funds are allocated, I will carefully scrutinize the outcomes to ensure accountability to you, the voter
I have lived in Bakersfield for nearly 35 years and hold a B.A. from U.C. San Diego, a Master’s degree from San Diego State University, and a Doctorate from the University of Arizona. I have been a Trustee of the Greenfield Union School District since 2016.
Key Accomplishments:
- Enhanced Student Safety:
- Successfully reinstated a school resource officer.
- Installed security systems on all school sites.
- Improved Transportation:
- Increased the number of school buses to better serve student needs.
- Additional bus drivers and transportation aides hired for student transportation.
- Expanded Support Services:
- Added more academic coaches, behavior intervention aids, social workers and nurses.
- Infrastructure Development:
- Construction of a new school (Cresent Elementary).
- Modernization of Fairview ES, Greenfield MS, Planz ES and Kendrick ES.
- Construction of district’s first gymnasium (Greenfield MS, in progress).
- Enhanced Programs:
- Dual language immersion.
- Preschool programs at all elementary sites.
- Expanded afterschool programs.
Ongoing and Future Goals:
- Improve Test Scores: Focus on strategies to recover from the academic impact of COVID-19 and meet state-mandated testing requirements.
- Gymnasiums in Middle Schools: Continue efforts to provide gymnasiums in all middle schools within the district.
- Equal Public Education: Advocate for policies that ensure all students have equal access to high-quality education.
- Expand Dual Language Immersion: Continue to expand dual language programs to other school sites.
- Equitable Use of Tax Dollars: Continue to ensure that tax dollars are fairly distributed across the district, with decisions made in the best interest of all stakeholders.