In May, I published a blog
outlining the plans for Rep. Diego Bernal (D-San Antonio) to visit all of
the schools in his district so that he could develop a better
understanding of the needs of students and staff in his district. I was pleased to see an article recently in
which he summarized his views of the issues he found when visiting the 55
campuses in three ISD’s in his district.
To read his article, What They Said: What I Learned from Conversations
with Texas Educators, please click here.
Several things struck me as I read his summary of findings
but what really resonated with me is his commitment to maintaining an open mind
as he traveled his district and a willingness to listen to different points of
view. His efforts are fairly unique in
that he personally took the opportunity to learn firsthand what he could,
actions that no doubt will have a positive impact on decisions he will make
when it comes to public education. Will
he always agree with my position? It’s
not likely but I applaud and thank him for his efforts.
Rep. Bernal touched on many topics; the following are but a
few:
- Importance of quality instructional time
- Incentives to hire (and retain) experienced teachers
- Dual language programs
- Testing practices
- The stigma of an A-F rating system
- Importance of pre-K
- Need for technology to support curriculum
His efforts to understand the challenges and complexities of
the public education environment should be lauded by all public education
advocates. All too often, legislators are
faced with a vote on a topic and have to rely on others (peers or staff) to
help them understand the issues.
Reaching out to campus and district leaders directly will enable Rep.
Bernal to be one of the influencers when it comes to a discussion and debate
about public education.
Without a doubt, party lines will be drawn in the discussion
about public education but if his peers take the time to read his report and to
listen to his input, not only will they be better able to understand the issues
but the students will benefit directly.
It’s my hope that others in the legislature will take the time to
understand the issues and opportunities found in public education and that the
combined effort will build a platform to Make
Education a Priority. Thank you,
Rep. Bernal, for your service and your leadership. On behalf of all public education advocates,
we look forward to working with you in the 85th legislative session.
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