Speak Out

Prop. 38 will help us rescue our schools

Yes on Proposition 38 will give a $4,000 voucher to parents who choose to get their kids out of the failing public school system and give the public schools the increased funding they need to make things better for all children.

Here's why I support Proposition 38:

* Our school system has more dropouts than any state. More children in California become high school dropouts than any state in the nation. Almost half of these dropouts go on to commit crimes. In fact, almost half of California's prison population are dropouts.

* San Jose Unified, in order to pass their bonds, showed many children being forced to use filthy, vandalized bathrooms with broken plumbing and no toilet paper. Children simply wait all day until they get home to use the bathroom.

* With over 40,000 uncredentialed teachers in California's public schools, thousands of failing and disruptive students are pushed through the system. They can't read! They can't write! Yet, they interfere with your child's learning. They are also socially promoted to the next grade where they are again socially promoted, with no consequences for their failure.

* San Jose Unified School District reported that 21 of 29 of their schools are performing below the state median level. They also refused money and help from the state to increase their test scores. What are they afraid of? Why aren't our trustees doing anything about this?

* If parents have a choice for their children's education, schools and school systems such as San Jose Unified will become accountable to parents and taxpayers.

These changes will require San Jose Unified to listen to parents and taxpayers and to provide a brighter future for all our children. Vote yes on Proposition 38 to change the system and change our children's future.

Michael Johnson
Willow Glen

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