Fixing Our Bizarre School Governance System
By Peter Schrag
Among the classic examples of California’s convoluted governance structure few are as bizarre as that governing K-12 education.
Here, the independently elected state superintendent of public instruction is supposed to carry out policies set by the state board of education, which is appointed by the governor.
In turn, the governor, along with the legislature, controls much of the budget both for the badly under-funded Department of Education which the SPI directs and the 1000 or so local districts that actually run the schools.
But of course the board can’t fire or discipline the elected superintendent, though “State Board of Education v. Honig,” a wacky (and very political) court decision handed down in 1993, gives it the power to approve his or her choices for deputy and associate superintendents and set state policy.
Farmers, Professors, and Others Deliver a Message of Courage to Senator Cannella
By John Sarraille
“Doing the right thing isn’t always easy, but we’re counting on you.” That’s the message of courage more than 250 Modesto-area residents delivered to State Senator Anthony Cannella’s office on Thursday.
I was one of hundreds of people from all walks of life who gathered at the Modesto rally to ensure Cannella hears directly from his constituents about what is most important to us: education, safe communities, and caring for seniors and young people.
Joining educators like me at the event were seniors, public safety officials, farmers, and others who have our share of differences, but who know getting California back on track is so important we have to come together to protect our shared priorities.