Public Schools

In 1998, education became the No. 1 public concern and, consequently, the No. 1 political issue. Every candidate for public office espoused an education platform designed to improve California’s schools. Hence, a new group of elected leaders who vowed in campaign promises to “fix the California’s schools” will be sworn into office in early January.

For those of us in the education business, this is both a blessing and a curse. We are blessed with so much interest and energy focused on what we believe is the most important work that a society can do--educating its youth. We are cursed by the potential for simple, politically correct solutions to the complex challenge of schooling the most diverse group of students ever enrolled in public schools anywhere in the world.

The optimist in me believes that this trend will translate into progress for California’s schools. Most elected leaders have vowed to continue the efforts in class-size reduction, higher quality standards for students and teachers, and an aligned statewide assessment system. The recent statewide school bond will provide the resources to house our growing student population and to modernize our aging schools. The robust economy will provide the resources to correct the financial neglect of the last several years and move California’s investment in education closer to the national average.

My suggestions for improving the schools from Sacramento include:

* Create a political consensus around educational goals / standards and reform. The public must accommodate thoughtful changes in local schools.

* Adopt a genuine accountability system for students, teachers, administrators, board members, parents and community members.

* Champion education access, equity and quality for all.

* Demonstrate a commitment to the professionalization of educators.

* Demand higher quality curriculum and materials from publishers. California’s curriculum at all levels must be more focused.

* Support school-to-career opportunities for more students.

* Provide universal access to high-quality preschools.

* Return visual and performing arts to the daily curriculum of every California child.

* Increase investment in alternative schools, schools of choice and charter schools that accommodate market demands and community needs.

* Provide greater opportunities and incentives for increased autonomy and flexibility at the school and district level by moving California from a rules-based system to a results-based educational system.

I firmly believe that if the recommendations above are implemented, California public schools can move to the next level in the 21st century and can regain their standing among the world’s best.