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"