BY YESHA MALIK

Dr. Ravindra Kumar, a faculty member and researcher at the Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta, is running for a position on Gwinnett Country’s school Board. He is representing the Democratic Party in the upcoming July 15th election for Gwinnett’s District 5. Dr. Kumar has personally experienced the quality of education in this school district through his two teenage sons and has decided to bring about change himself by running for this position.

Dr. Kumar’s has noted the difference in quality of education between the normal high school in comparison to the magnet school in the district, Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science and Technology. Some of the main issues that Dr. Kumar is using to make his stance known are the lack of adequate financial funding to the district, the introduction of early intervention programs, curbing the high school dropout rate, making schools safer and other problems he has identified within this economically disadvantaged school district.

There is clear discrepancy within the district in regards to funding the schools receive. Up to 70% of students in this district are eligible for reduced meals based on their parents’ incomes. Dr. Kumar is advocating for greater financial support for schools in the district regardless of the socioeconomic class of each school area.

Dr. Kumar also wants to introduce intervention programs in elementary years for these economically disadvantaged children. Proper guidance early on can later lead to higher test scores, greater student retention, and less crime.

After-school programs are also an important issue in Dr. Kumar’s election platform. These programs can lead to fewer delinquent high school students and more academic and creative enrichment.

Dr. Kumar highlights the fact that it is difficult for the teachers and schools alone to take responsibility for these problems. Parental involvement is a key factor in keeping students motivated and helping them maintain the right attitude. Also, communication between parents and teachers can keep both parties involved in the life of the student inside and outside the classroom.

Gwinnett’s Fifth District has difficulty retaining enough qualified teachers. Some of these teachers have difficulty inspiring students who have never been given enough opportunities. Training programs and refresher courses for faculty may help keep their perspectives fresh and help them motivate their students.

If elected, Dr. Kumar wants to provide SAT classes to the students of District 5. These opportunities will help these students to achieve higher and each success will give them the inspiration for further achievements.

Dr. Ravindra Kumar is running as a Democratic party candidate for school district 5 in Gwinnett County. High schools in this district include Berkmar, Meadowcreek, and Parkview. The primary election will take place on July 15, 2008. To find out more information or to take part in Dr. Kumar’s campaign, visit www.electkumar.com, or email electkumar@hotmail.com.

Dr. Ravindra Kumar has completed a MS in Chemistry and Biochemistry, and a PhD in Biochemistry. He has worked in the field of academia as a researcher and teacher for many years and has published numerous journals. He lives with his wife and two sons in Gwinnett county District 5.