Testimony of Lea Crusey, Board Chair DC Public Charter School Board
Testimony of Lea Crusey, Board Chair DC Public Charter School Board
Confirmation Hearing for Jim Sandman
Committee of the Whole
March 29, 2024
Good morning, Chairman Mendelson, and members of the Committee of the Whole.I am Lea Crusey, Chair of the DC Public Charter School Board. I want to thank you for holding this hearing today and allowing me to testify, in support of renominating Jim
Sandman to the DC Public Charter School Board. Jim Sandman has been a valuable member of our board since 2019, consistently demonstrating dedication to the students of the District.
With his extensive background in both law and public education, Mr. Sandman brings a wealth of experience and thoughtful insight to our board deliberations and
voting processes. As a District resident for more than 30 years, he has deep roots in the community and has dedicated his career to public service, making him a trusted advocate for educational excellence.
Mr. Sandman’s continued service on our board is crucial to DC PCSB’s mission and its service to the students and families of the District of Columbia. He not only brings to his service a profound understanding of our agency but also draws from his rich personal and professional experiences. Jim is one of the most thoughtful individuals I know, constantly keeping in careful consideration the perspective of parents and students who observe our deliberations in action with our authority and responsibility.
Consistency in leadership creates a culture of trust and accountability and helps maintain institutional knowledge among leaders. Jim Sandman’s keen awareness of the educational landscape is important as we embark on upcoming projects, such as the revision of our accountability system- called ASPIRE. Our board will vote on ASPIRE and our updated Charter Goals Policy this summer. Given the importance of these changes, we want board members with significant knowledge of our sector and authorizing work.
I am confident that Mr. Sandman will continue to play a pivotal role in advocating for the best interests of our students. In this high-stakes decision-making process, Mr. Sandman provides invaluable insights necessary for navigating complex challenges and ensuring that our initiatives align with the needs of our students and the broader community.
I have full confidence in Jim Sandman’s ability to continue pushing the needle forward on our journey toward providing excellent and equitable schools for every child in the District, and I am grateful for his ongoing commitment and leadership. For these reasons, I ask that you vote to support Mr. Sandman’s reconfirmation to the DC PCSB’s Board. Thank you again for allowing me to testify before you today; I am happy to answer any questions.