School Board Candidate Q&A: Scott Hu

The filing period for the school board November election

Current President Chris Norgaard is the sole incumbent and is joined by PTA Board President as well as active volunteer Scott Hu.

Candidate Hu has not previously run for or held a post on the board, but he has close ties with the San Marino schools and community via volunteer service. Hu used to work as a journalist covering news in China and then the San Gabriel Valley but is now a financial business owner and insurance broker.

Hu has two sons both enrolled in the district, a senior at and an eighth-grader at . His wife Guilin Zhou has been a teacher with the Alhambra School District for over 20 years and is also a volunteer in San Marino schools.

Patch recently spoke with Hu about why he is running for school board, how he plans to address the district’s major issues and what he will offer on the board. Here is what Hu had to say:

1. Why are you running for school board?

That’s a good question, [laughs] but an easy one. I believe that all residents of San Marino should participate in some form of government and for the benefit of the school district. I am proud of the school system here in San Marino. We have the number one school in the area and I wanted to join in the race to help keep it that way.

2. Have you run for school board or served on a school board before?

No, this is my very first time running. I have two kids and have always encouraged them to participate in the community and in their school. I am running because I want to be a role model for them and to show them the importance of community participation. I want to make a difference and maintain the high level of education our children have.

3. What do you think are the top issues the district faces? How do you plan to address those issues?

I wouldn’t say this is an issue more than a major concern for everyone, but the budget. Our school district is one of the top in California and in order to keep it that way, we have to maintain a budget to do so. I have ideas to bring to the Board and additional ways to keep it in tact. We need open minds in order to expand and contribute something [to the School Board].

My education, I have an M.B.A., and having been a journalist, will help give another layer and viewpoint to the board. My wife has been a teacher for 20 years, so I have these resources to tap into.

I must say that the current members are all very good and I take my hat off to them. We have two attorneys on the board right now, and I feel I would be a good fit and add a new dimension with my work experience. I can use my skills for the benefit of residents.

4. How have you been involved with San Marino schools?

I have been a consistent volunteer in the community for years. I have two sons, both in the San Marino school district.

I have volunteered on the AYSO, and for Boy Scout Troop 358 as a parent trooper. I volunteer for the high school and am the only father on the quilting team [laughs] but I enjoy it very much.

5. What do you like to do in your leisure time when you get it?

I enjoying taking photographs and am very into photography. My wife and kids will agree, or at least they say, that I take great photographs. I also enjoy reading and gardening. I have a small vegetable garden in my backyard and grow tomatoes, cucumbers and green peppers.

I also love to spend time with my kids and wife. It’s fun to be with my kids and their schoolmates. My kid’s friends all enjoy spending time at our house.