February 04, 2004

"Finally, I reluctantly inform you that the Intern Program [responsibe for training, evaluating and sometimes dismissing prospective new teachers] faces a serious challenge. Management is about to establish one set of performance standards for Hispanics and whites, and a lesser standard for African-Americans as a concession to the Urban Coalition. There is no evidence that our standards result in a higher percentage of African-American teacher dismissals than others. It is insulting and disappointing that to satisfy the Coalition, the Board and the Superintendent view support from teacher bashers more important than maintaining the integrity of our performance standards." - Francine Lawrence, President Toledo Federation of Teachers

In short, this means the Toledo Public Schools will lower the standards necessary for *only* black teachers to be hired. Not only is it reverse discrimination but it's got to be damn insulting and belittling to black people in general. How do they expect lower teacher standards to raise the level of education in the system? If the Board and the Superintendent implement this plan, they will be in for a well-deserved firestorm. I hope they wear their asbestos underwear.

Posted by Daniel at February 04, 2004 05:51 PM | TrackBack