Ahead of the November general election, the Southern California News Group compiled a list of questions to pose to the candidates who wish to represent you. You can find the full questionnaire below.
Name: James Cameron
Age: 52
Current job title: Business Development
Incumbent: No
Other political positions held: Candidate for lieutenant governor
City where you reside: Huntington Beach
Campaign website or social media: Afoundationtogo.org
To you, what is the role of community college in education? Is it driving policy, being involved in curriculum, something else entirely? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)
Community colleges are a foundation to go pursue greater general knowledge about the world and yourself.
In October, Long Beach City College will break ground on a new student housing facility at its Liberal Arts Campus that will provide 431 total units to students. Is student housing a priority that your college should pursue? If so, explain how you intend to take on such an endeavor in a timely, cost-effective manner. If you don’t, how should your college district support students searching for affordable housing options near campus? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
YES, “on-campus housing” is an excellent use of surrounding land, for we need the students to get to class on time always, teaching efficiency on campuses for qualified candidates, etc.
What actions would you suggest to prevent a cyberattack similar to the Canvas data breach in May? How can your district ensure students’ information is safe? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
Higher community college learning is aspirational to all high school kids and elementary children. It is the baseline walking bridge for young adults to test their advanced thinking skills. Workforce-ready students are inevitably the result, if aligned to promote skills training, internships, certifications and credentials.
How do you feel artificial intelligence is, or isn’t, safe in the classroom? In what instances should it be expanded in the classroom? What about when it should be limited? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
A private third-party technical and financial audit is a very good idea to shore up vulnerabilities and enhance private digital networks. Underage children (up to age 18) might need special care and parental participation. Likewise, inflows of revenue and outflows of expenses shall be analyzed for maximum delivery of value.
Students will be using artificial intelligence outside of class and on homework, of course, yet in the classroom, smartphones can be turned off easily.
How do you believe schools can better teach or engage students in civil discourse? How would you like to see your district tackle this issue? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
Civil discourse in debate class, or otherwise permitted scheduled times of free, peaceful thought or will, is obviously acceptable. There are limits and boundaries, of course, to protest, so beware of consequences such as suspension and/or expulsion.
What experiences and priorities do you bring to this role? What have you learned in prior leadership roles that makes you the person for the job? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
My profound life has been a byproduct of an early-on Orange Coast College experience. Our paths are all different, yet our common need is to expand horizons and excel at our wishes; we shall decide our own destiny.
The OCC ladder sent me south to San Diego State University to study finance, then begin an exciting career. My curiosity in multiple facets has exponentially grown over the years to fulfill my quest and now give back.
If your campaign had a mascot, what would it be and why? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)
My campaign’s mascot is the wise old owl as it seeks studious concentration.
Bonus question: What is the best book you’ve read this year? Explain why you found it compelling.
The book I’ve been reading is “Twist Of Fate, Memoir.” I wrote it about my life, so I enjoy the character arc and development.