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2008
 | Skeptics and critics of public education are forever ready to pounce on any failure, real or perceived. And the ferocity of their attacks can reduce even the best school leaders to huffing protestations or tongue-tied silence. |
In This Issue
Ted Mitchell is president of the California State Board of Education.
Slowly but surely, despite changes in academic priorities, accountability systems and fiscal uncertainties, school gardens and related agriculture programs are taking root at rural, urban and suburban schools across the country.
Local education foundations have been around for a long time, but their significance and impact on public schools have increased exponentially, and in close proportion to drastic cuts in state and federal funding, as well as the draconian effects on property tax revenues caused by the passage of Proposition 13 in 1978.
Departments
Scott P. Plotkin is the executive director of the California School Boards Association.
Brian Taylor is the managing editor of California Schools.
Mike West is Governmental Affairs chair of the California Athletic Trainers’ Association.
Banning Unified School District's conflict mediation program is a hit.
The Madera County Office of Education helps potential dropouts stay connected.