OEA values the retention of local control over decision making, as well as inclusion of employees in governance and decision-making processes. The higher education standards established in the Educational Act for the 21st Century demand much of students and education employees. Employees must be adequately prepared to help students meet these standards. OEA believes that necessary and appropriate training and funding to support it must be available. Mentoring programs for new teachers are a critical component of this necessary training.
Research shows that mentoring has a positive impact on student learning.
The availability of instructional technology and training in its use must also be provided for students and personnel. But like any innovation, school choice should be approached incrementally and carefully so that quality learning is not compromised for expediency in any area. The same high standards of personnel licensure must apply in charter schools as in the regular program. Clear goals and outcomes must be identified. Fiscal and academic accountability must be ensured.