Monday, February 16, 2009

Vote Tomorrow?!

Yes, tomorrow is the spring primary, and there is one statewide race on the ballot. There are five candidates in the race for Superintendent of Public Instruction, the primary tomorrow will narrow the field to two. The AP has this take on the position:

While past state superintendents have used the position to take on the policies of the governor, the title carries with it very little true power. It is largely administrative, responsible for running the agency that provides state and federal aid to public schools, and offering guidance to teachers and administrators.

However, the superintendent can use the position to advocate for change and push education policies that could influence decisions made by the Legislature and governor.


At its best the Superintedent can be an effective administrator and a vocal and visible advocate for policy.

I won't endorse anyone here, you can find a brief run-down on the candidates here: http://www.jsonline.com/news/education/39296147.html

1 comment:

guilfoil said...

Does Monona Grove School District teach the use of the name 'Squaw' for women of tribal heritage? Here in Monona a street is named 'Squaw Circle' and a part of lake Monona that abuts the city of Monona is named 'Squaw Bay'. This settler 'naming' is culturally offensive to native families, along with 'Buck, Redskin' etc. What does Monona Grove curriculum do to raise the consciousness of its students about such cultural practices?
I hope the candidates for the school board will address this question in their literature and public fora.