Local And State Educators Discuss Education’s Future

PALM DESERT – It’s a problem too big for one person or one community. This statewide issue requires statewide attention.

“It’s something we have to work together on and ride out these tough times,” says Assemblyman Brian Nestande, Education Committee Vice-Chair.

This year, California schools have 18 billion dollars fewer than expected.

“It’s really hard for principals and schools to deal with the cuts,” says Nestande.

In attempt to find solutions, Nestande and State Superintendent of Schools, Jack O’Connell, talked and listened to valley educators.

“It’s important to get feedback,” says Nestande.

“It’s great they are coming to listen to us, and get our ideas about reform,” says Patrick Walsh, Palm Desert High School Principal.

The round-table meeting comes just days after Governor Schwarzenegger signed historic education reform into legislation, making it possible for schools around the state to compete for federal Race to the Top Funds.

“We now have accountability, more data and we can make better decisions,” says Jack O’Connell, California Superintendent of Schools.

Leaders say “Race to the Top” isn’t so much about earning money, it’s more about flexibility and making positive changes to education.

“Most of us have something to say about this topic,” says Ricardo Medina, Coachella Valley Unified School District Superintendent.

“It’s up to us to decide here is a plan for how we will reform education for the future,” says Nestande.

Leaders hope brainstorming and team work will lead to success for our schools and more importantly, our students.

“We can’t keep short changing our future,” says O’Connell.