I was recently given a letter sent by the Capistrano Unified Educators Association (local teachers union) to its members. Apparently, the world is coming to an end. I know what you are thinking. The state budget has had a significant impact on education funding. That must be what has caused the alarm. No, that wasn't it.
They are all in a twist that Lance Izumi who is a member of the Board of Governors for the California Community Colleges and serves on the California Advisory Board Executive Committee for the U.S. Army on education issues appeared at a fundraiser. He was on hand to support challengers to the CUEA supported incumbents.
So what was the crime committed by these challengers to the CUEA status quo? Did they beat up an old lady and take her purse? Well, they must want to kill puppies then. No? So what was it? Wait for it...they are believed to be supporters of charter schools. Stop the presses!
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Charter schools are public schools that are parent led and largely operate outside the control of the teachers union. Charter schools are the new boogeyman when it comes to public education.
Some charter schools just like traditional schools have had problem players. However, others have demonstrated they can deliver an exceptional education. Capistrano Unified has some very fine charter schools that operate within its boundaries.
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Labor costs for Capistrano Unified are some of the highest in the county at 92%. Charter schools are a more efficient model that has CUEA spooked.
Truth is we need both. Competition improves quality. People learn differently and having the ability to choose a school that best fits needs of the student is good for everyone.
I know detractors will post that I support vouchers. That must be my true agenda. This couldn't be further from the truth. First, vouchers will never happen in California. Secondly, vouchers would be devastating for parochial schools.
I fear legislators would use the acceptance of vouchers as an excuse to insert lessons contrary to the doctrine of most mainstream faiths into the curriculum.
At the end of the day, I believe that the vast majority of teachers and parents want to make sure our schools have the resources they need to provide a quality education. Opinions differ when it comes to the delivery.
Hopefully, all involved can cut down on the hyperbole and inflammatory rhetoric this election cycle.