"As the California legislative battle lines are drawn over school reform, and as attempts are being made to put the state on track to Race to the Top by seeking its share of the $4.3 billion federal fund, what seems to be sorely missing is any informed discussion on the strategy to improve teaching.
Recognizing the importance of teaching, No Child Left Behind emphasized the improvement of teacher quality as a central objective. The same emphasis is incorporated in the rules states must follow for the Race to the Top fund. A perfect application for a grant would earn a state a total of 500 points, of which 138 points, the largest chunk, are allotted for recruiting quality teachers and for evaluating their effectiveness. States must clearly articulate innovative strategies for improving classroom teaching.
But in putting together its application, California seems to be paying no attention to classroom teaching."