Statement of Principles

Post date: Nov 03, 2012 3:52:50 AM

I stand for:

• • Fully funded public schools with elected school boards

  • Small class sizes

  • Dual language immersion

  • Free voluntary reading and ample access to libraries

  • Project based learning and respect for vocational education

  • Culturally relevant curriculum, ethic studies, and liberation pedagogy

  • Arts, music, and literature

  • Schools encouraging community and parental collaboration

  • Professional, experienced educators with the right to collective bargaining

I vehemently oppose:

• • Privatization via charters and vouchers

  • Standardized tests being used for high stakes decisions

  • A singular focus on testing leading to a narrowing of curricula and elimination of electives

  • Segregation by race, class, and ethnicity

  • Discrimination against students with special needs or disabilities

  • Alternate teaching certifications that lead to inexperienced and unqualified instructors

  • Unproven methodologies and programs being imposed on districts

  • No Child Left Behind, Race to the Top, and Common Core State Standards

  • Profiteering in the name of "helping kids"