Post Identifies Players

The Capistrano Unified School District’s next election is shaping up to be a contest between those who put students first and those who are hand-picked by the teachers’ union. I thought it might be useful to introduce some of the players to you. 

The first question is going to be the recall. A group called “Children First” spearheaded the effort to get the recall of Trustees Mike Winsten and Ken Lopez Maddox on the ballot. But who is Children First? Basically, it is the inside circle of what remains of now indicted former Superintendent James Fleming. Its leadership is closely tied to union leaders in the school district (spouses, domestic partners etc.).

Their spokesperson is Chris Korpi. According to Chris’ Facebook page, he is the life partner of a CUSD school counselor. Chris denies any connection to the union. He forgot his partner is a member of the teachers’ union. But that isn’t all he forgot. The treasurer is also a member and so are several donors to the committee to include the actual teachers’ union. 

Running to replace Mike Winsten is failed San Clemente City Council candidate and recently elected member of the Republican Party Central Committee, John Alpay. Many might call Alpay a Republican In Name Only (RINO). But this isn’t really fair to solid RINOs like Able Maldonado who voted last year for the largest tax increase in California history. Alpay had a leader of the South Orange County Democratic Club introduce him at the press conference announcing his candidacy. This Democratic leader is Fran Sdao. She is also the legislative chair for the PTSA at Tesoro High School.

Running to replace Ken Lopez Maddox is college professor and failed Democratic nominee for state senate, Gary Pritchard. At least Pritchard believes in something. He last ran on a platform of same sex marriage, access to partial birth abortion (endorsed by NARAL), and higher taxes.

Another Children First candidate is Lynn Hatton. She is endorsed by State Superintendent of Schools, Jack O’Connell and the union establishment. These are the same people who chose the protection of the teachers’ union to making the reforms necessary to receive millions of dollars in federal aid under the Race To The Top Funds. Hatton has already announced her opposition to charter schools.

Now we come to Saam Alikhani. This 18-year-old recent graduate was the student advisor to the Board. Saam is also close to the South Orange County Democratic Club, lives at home and doesn’t work. Saam last ran for office on a platform of dodgeball tutorials and school dances that allow “freaking.” You can’t make this stuff up.

The teachers’ union wants to replace the Board because their pay was cut this past year. They have selected their handmaidens and plan on spending a $100,000 to get them elected. The classified employees’ event boasts their intent to elect their own bosses on their website.

Voters will have a clear choice. Either the parents will be in charge or union leaders will be in control. It can’t be both ways.

CUSD Parent