Hirata chosen for Roseville school board

With a first name like "Stanford," it's not surprising that education might be a high priority. But now, Stanford Hirata has another designation to prove it: School board member.Choosing from what they called "an exceptionally well qualified" applicant pool, Roseville City School District trustees Thursday night selected Hirata to fill an open seat on their Board of Education.Hirata comes to the board having led the Roseville City School District Foundation, the district's independent fundraising arm, for the past year and a half.Trustees at the meeting interviewed 10 candidates for the position, which was vacated when RCSD board member Scott Huber was selected to serve on the Roseville Joint Union High School District's governing body in July."First of all, I'm humbled and honored to be chosen among such wonderful candidates," Hirata said. "I just can't wait to start learning."A financial advisor, Hirata, 38, said he applied for the open position on the five-member board because of a longtime passion for supporting education. The 11-year Roseville resident and head coach of Woodcreek Little League has two children, ages 5 and 8, who attend Blue Oaks Elementary School."I have a vested interest in seeing the long-term success of this district," he said, referring to his children's education.In addition to his financial business, Hirata has been an adjunct professor of business at Sierra College since 1998. He is also a commissioner on the city's Grants Advisory Board."I feel a lot of that practical business experience can assist this board," Hirata said during his remarks before the vote.Board President Krista Bernasconi said Hirata stood out because of his successful leadership of the RCSD Foundation and a diverse background."Stanford has filled the role as president (of the Foundation) and has excelled," she said. "I think we've gotten further in last year and a half with his leadership than we have since its inception. And I know he'll bring that leadership to the board."Trustees approved the appointment after a motion, moved by board member Rene Aguilera and seconded by Helen Duran, to select applicant Brett McFadden failed to receive a majority among the four board members. Trustee Susan Goto then moved to appoint Hirata, and Board President Krista Bernasconi seconded.After a short discussion, Duran voiced approval for the motion, and Aguilera changed an initial "no" vote to make the decision unanimous.Before the roll call vote, board members encouraged applicants to participate in the next election."We can only choose one, but next year voters can choose two," Duran said. "So if you don't get chosen tonight, start planning for next year."Hirata will serve the remainder of Huber's term, which is next up for re-election in November 2008.