On March 26-27, 2003, CAPSO's board of directors, officers and staff participated in a variety of activities in the state's capital. Our goal: to "tell the private school story" to elected officials and to strengthen the consultative relationship between California's private school community and the new administration at the California Department of Education.

On March 26, CAPSO participated in a joint meeting with the California Private School Advisory Committee attended by Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell and key members of the California Department of Education staff.

That evening, CAPSO held its annual Legislative Reception at the State Capitol, an event attended by elected officials and staff.

On March 27, CAPSO board members paid visits to the offices of the following eight state legislators:

• Senator Jeff Denham (R-12)*
• Assemblyman Robert Dutton (R-63)
• Senator Bruce McPherson (R-15)*
• Assemblyman George Plescia (R-75)*
• Assemblywoman Sara Reyes (D-31)*
• Senator Jack Scott (D-21)*
• Senator John Vasconcellos (D-13)*
• Assemblyman Mark Wyland (R-74)*

Highlights of CAPSO's Message

Private Schools

• are partners in the education of the public
• educate 10% of California's K-12 students
• are diverse and pluralistic
• pursue high standards
• are directly accountable to students and parents
• save California taxpayers at least $6 billion, annually
• deserve equitable consideration in laws providing incentives for teacher recruitment and retention
• achieve the kind of results California needs