Re “Tabbing Next Improvements for Schools” 

Like a rocket from the sky, an in-depth interview with School Board member Steve Levin turned up earlier this week as part of an ambitious “For Great Schools” project by activist parent Scott McVarish.

A lawyer by training, a father by choice, why he decided to launch his extensive exploration turns out to be a fascinating yarn.

“Culver City is blessed now to have a very good, strong superintendent in Dave LaRose,” said Mr. McVarish.

“I know all about superintendents. I have worked with about 10, and Dave is without a doubt in the top two I have ever worked with.”

Where did Mr. McVarish deal with 10 superintendents?

“I used to be the head of the teachers union in the South Bay, first as the staff attorney and later as executive director.”

For Mr. McVarish, what distinguishes Mr. LaRose, who is rounding out his third year in Culver City?

“He brings an energy, a passion, and he is very well organized. That might not sound like so much. But the job of superintendent is so hard. It is so difficult to juggle all of the demands. Without extraordinary self-organizing ability, it is impossible to get anything done.

“He has gotten so much done, especially considering how small his administrative staff is. It is incredible, all of the tasks and projects that his very small crew of fellow administrators is accomplishing.”

Returning to Mr. McVarish’s original motivation:

“Besides being blessed with a very good superintendent, we have probably the best School Board – all five members – that I have seen. They complement each other’s skills and knowledge very well, and each member has a number of strong assets.

“Given how great our superintendent is and that all five members of our School Board are all-stars, I have felt that not enough discussion has been occurring on the future of our School District.”

(To be continued)