Just before the November general election, a series of key inquiries was assembled by the Southern California News Group, targeting the aspiring representatives. A complete survey devised for the candidates is presented underneath. Certain editing may have been performed on these questionnaires, focusing on spelling, grammar, and length modifications, while in some instances ensuring the removal of derogatory language and hate speech.
One of the respondents was Dzung “Dan” Nguyen, a Non-Partisan candidate who is currently employed as a Manager in the domain of Business Systems and Transformation. He does not hold any prior political position and is not an incumbent. The city he lives in is Anaheim.
Nguyen responded to a question on the opinions expressed by Governor Gavin Newsom, who has urged for stringent control over smartphone use in the school environment. He has cited various research works that draw a correlation between the detrimental effects of social media and extensive exposure to smartphones. The stronger role of schools in moderating smartphone use was questioned.
Nguyen was an advocate for tight regulations on smartphone use during teaching hours. He suggested implementing guidelines that educate the students about potential hazards and risks associated with the internet. Furthermore, he proposed a mechanism through which instances of cyber-bullying could be reported.
When asked about how the district can better employ artificial intelligence technology for academic purposes while concurrently shielding the youngsters from potential misuse, like bullying, he shared his ideas. Nguyen suggested consulting experts in the software sector to learn the ways of safely capitalizing on AI technology.
He believes in the role of AI as a tool for assistance in education, and advised on discovering ways for teachers to implement it in their teachings. He emphasized monitoring and logging every AI-related activity on the district-owned computer resources, essentially to safeguard the student users. Warnings about this surveillance process should also be disseminated among the students. He stressed the need to educate students about the potential risks and hazards related to AI usage and proposed having a feature for reporting any bullying attempts involving AI.
On the topic of the primary needs of the school district, Nguyen admitted the district is navigating through several challenging situations. After a recent recall, the board of OUSD consists of five elected and two appointed members. With the forthcoming election, he envisioned a board wholly comprised of elected members.
Nguyen asserted that the requirements of the district cannot be determined through preconceived notions. He advocated for listening attentively and whole-heartedly to all perspectives and viewpoints, devoid of preconceived notions or biases. He believes this approach will reveal the real needs of the district, enabling the most efficient problem-solving through collective efforts.
Discussing the qualifications and priorities he brings to this role, Nguyen mentioned his significant experience of 42 years in the private business arena. He cited his practice of working collaboratively with diversified teams to address issues as being useful for this educational role. He also expressed his willingness to listen to different perspectives before making vital decisions for the ultimate beneficiaries, the students and families within the OUSD.
With respect to a new law due to take effect in California by 2025, which bars districts from enforcing policies notifying parents about a possible change in their kid’s gender identity, Nguyen lent his perspective. He emphasized the indispensable part parents play in their children’s educational journey. He urged parents to inspire their kids to exhibit their best in academics, respect the educators, direct attention to course content, among others.
While suggesting the ways parents can participate in their children’s academic progress, Nguyen also raised concerns about the black-and-white nature of notification policies regarding a potential change in a child’s gender identity. Seeing the issue as more complex, and potentially very emotional for both the child and parents, he expressed that a ‘one-size-fits-all’ policy could not be applied uniformly. The approach should be adaptable, with each case handled individually and sensitively.
When deliberating on the role of the district in the combat against climate change, he suggested persisting and broadening the use of green and solar energy within school premises and other district facilities. He also favored the inclusion of scientifically-backed information on climate change as an integral part of the curriculum.