It is simply unfair to expect children who have the furthest to go to reach higher standards to get there with the fewest resources. With so much to do, Lubin said a much greater investment in education is required. Broadening his analysis, Lubin, who heads the union's legislative and political action division, praised the governor's initiatives to require the Big 5 cities to maintain their investment in public schools, and to help all school districts to recruit and retain teachers. While applauding elements of the governor's plan, Lubin said the final education spending package must build on the positives by restoring funding for Teacher Centers, Mentor-Teacher Internships and the Albert Shanker National Board Certification Grant Program. And while he offered support for the governor's New Teacher Induction Program, he pointed out it benefits only new teachers in low-performing schools.
All new teachers deserve to have the benefit of a mentor as they start out in the classroom.
Lubin said the union backed giving school districts more flexibility in directing money to local priorities. But he questioned why the budget's Flex Aid proposal includes special education funding. School districts have an obligation under law to provide special education, whether the aid is targeted or not. The 450,000-member union also expressed disappointment with other education proposals. Lubin thanked lawmakers for years of strong support for public education.