Articles in this issue

• Message to protect schools being heard; rally set for Feb. 11
  The media and the public are beginning to hear and understand the importance of ACSA’s message that the $10 billion in funding cuts proposed for education over the next 17 months are too deep and that broad budget flexibility is imperative.
• Address lends focus to reform of ed funding
  Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O’Connell delivered his sixth annual State of Education address, making the case for school funding reform and increased investment in public education as the keys to California’s economic recovery.
• School Funding in Crisis: Econonic stimulus
  Action on the debate over the federal economic stimulus package will remain crucial as a House/Senate conference committee works to reconcile differences in their respective versions of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
• LAO recommends different approach to Prop. 98 cuts
  The Legislative Analyst’s Office report “2009-10 Budget Analysis Series: Proposition 98 Education Programs” suggests several ways to minimize the adverse effect of budget cuts to schools currently being discussed in the Capitol.
• CTC approves new autism authorization for teachers
  The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing has approved six new add-on teaching authorizations, including one for teaching students with autism spectrum disorders. The new authorizations can be added to an existing special education teaching credential.
• Superintendents’ Symposium: All-encompassing leadership
  The ACSA Superintendents’ Symposium attracted more than 500 school leaders to Monterey Jan. 28-30. Naturally the budget was the big topic of discussion.
• Applicants sought for African American advisory body
  The State Board of Education is seeking applications from educators, parents and community members to serve on the newly established African American Advisory Committee, charged with providing the SBE ongoing advice on a variety of issues.
• HR representative still needed for Title 1 Committee of Practitioners
  The State Board of Education is seeking applications for membership to the Title 1 Committee of Practitioners, and is in particular need of a representative from human resources.