Dialoguing with Davis

NEA Today, Apr 1999

Invoking a sense of urgency to increase student achievement, California Governor Gray Davis has called for $444 million in new education spending, including $93 million for a reading improvement program.

Four of the governor's proposed measures relate to educators: a school accountability plan, a teacher evaluation system based on peer review, a high school exit exam, and a new reading program containing additional training in phonics for reading teachers.

Some of the governor's proposals are controversial and have sparked spirited discussion. Davis continues an open dialogue with California Teachers Association leaders.

CTA is working to ensure that any legislation enacted addresses teacher concerns and supports the governor's commitment to promote excellence in California schools.