No one can dispute the fact that how we educate the next generation is one of the most important aspects of our society.
I know readers are interested in the social issues that emerge in elementary, high school and college classrooms, but they also want to make sure districts aren’t misusing taxpayer money.
I have a knack for pulling the critical details out of mundane board meetings, reporting on teacher and administrator scandals, covering emerging philosophies around AI use in Silicon Valley, and highlighting impressive student accomplishments.
“Post-pandemic learning-loss picture comes into focus for North County schools” Nov. 2, 2023 (Scotts Valley Press Banner)
District-wide, the number of students meeting or exceeding math standards in Scotts Valley’s public-school system took a tumble, from 67% in 2018 to 58% this year.
But that was still above the 42% of San Lorenzo Valley Unified School District (SLVUSD) learners measuring up in the subject. Just 17% of Pajaro Valley Unified School District (PVUSD) students are meeting math standards.
“Los Gatos-Saratoga named top school system in California (Q&A with Sup. Mike Grove)” Oct. 1, 2021 (Los Gatan)
“This is especially gratifying given the challenges that all schools have faced over the last year and a half.”
“Report Shows SVUSD Community ‘Polarized’ About Push for Diversity” July 22, 2022 (Good Times Santa Cruz)
In 2020-21, SVUSD had a turnover rate of 20%, compared to the national average of 16.5%.
Distrust of leadership, low pay and hostile relations with parents were cited as the main causes for leaving.