Last night, newly sworn-in Gov. Gray Davis announced his initiatives to improve public education in California. Maximum flexibility should be given to local schools and districts to implement statewide standards and programs. California is a large and diverse state. Changes can't be effective unless they are properly funded.
Most school districts are already strapped for cash.
California has the most students in the nation, but ranks 41st in per pupil expenditures and 50th in the ratio of students per teacher. CTA supports efforts to improve the reading skills of public school students. The ability to read well is the foundation of any education program. Fully funding teacher training and instructional materials is critical. NEA and CTA policy both support locals that wish to negotiate peer review as long as it is done correctly.