Some of the recent developments are not altogether bad, however. The seven-period day may end up serving the district well with its increased opportunities for electives had it not cost an additional $3.5 million in a time in which the district had unexpected costs. However, the current situation is crying out for new blood.

The district is still saddled with millions in debt from questionable financing of modernization bonds. But now may be the best time to look forward. And with that sentiment comes a time for new leadership.

Trustee Marcia Cohn-Lyle has already taken her leave to shoot for a seat on the Foster City Council. Her ticket-mate in her last election Diane Vranes has been left to fight for her seat alone against a trio of challengers.

One, peace activist Don Havis, is simply in the race to build awareness of military recruiters on campus. He is a former educator who wants the race’s focus to be on the curriculum.

Anyone who closely follows schools knows that may be important, but there are many other factors. And they all center on money. Candidate Dave Pine, currently a member of the Burlingame Elementary School District Board of Trustees, has significant experience in both the business world and in leading a school district. As the former vice president and general counsel of Handspring, Pine knows how to lead a 21st century company through trials and tribulations and understands his way around a multi-million dollar budget.

A policy wonk at heart, Pine has a deep understanding of the myriad issues facing schools at the local and state level.

He is through with the educational budget formula learning curve and can hit the ground running. Pine is considered a rising star and the district would benefit from his dynamic energy.

He is running with Stephen Rogers, a retired businessman who spent recent time on the district’s Budget Advisory Committee. His main goal is to restore financial credibility to district operations and provide effective oversight and governance on construction projects. With the fiasco of the last year, this is a much-needed goal. He has a collaborative style of governance and is direct and open.

Both Rogers and Pine are endorsed by the San Mateo High School District Teachers’ Association though Vranes is an educator. Vranes has done a solid job over the years promoting basic levels of literacy, but with a new administration coming out of some truly dark days, the district would benefit from new leadership not tainted from poor decisions. Pine and Rogers deserve your vote.