Submitted by PTA mom, Sep 8, 2008 02:09

I agree that it is about time we start getting input from parents instead of just politicians.(How many of their kids attend public school?) They (we) have some accountability for our children's progress as part of the mix. I work full time as a nurse, but also volunteer between 20-40 hours per month at my kid's public school. It has about 65% poverty and over 17 languages spoken. It also has some of the most dedicated, awesome teachers in the world. "Failing Schools"... what does that mean? With NCLB, test scores don't follow a student to measure their progress, instead it measures this year's class against last year's class. That's a great way of measuring achievement and progress. Close Failing schools?? And have who come in and teach? The national guard? I certainly would like to have a bunch of people who have no idea what my kids need come in and take over the school?? National standards and benchmarks? Perhaps. Even with it's 46th in the country for per pupil spending, CA has state standards that all need to be met. Every grade level has a specific curriculum that needs to be taught. Everyone is close to the same page. The social studies,music, art, drama, science, sports and after school activities all are important in a well rounded student. I don't expect my kid to be a rocket scientist, but I do want them to have a well rounded education, able to function, able to use critical thinking skills, and have a productive life.

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