Tough Choices or Tough Times

From the Speaker:

More than 500 parents, educators, policymakers and others stormed the Convention Center last week to begin our “Conversation with Colorado” – so many, in fact, that we couldn’t have much of a conversation at all. Instead, we entertained a provocative presentation by two of the report’s authors and agreed to meet again. We’re still trying to figure out exactly how, when, and where to do that.

In the meantime, let me clear up a few misconceptions about Tough Choices or Tough Times. I agree, by the way, with the correspondent who suggested we find a happier way to frame this discussion: our goal, in my view, should be to create a world-class education system that enables every student to fulfill his or her potential.

First, Sen. Groff and I are proposing to use this report as a starting point, not necessarily as a final answer. And we are determined to make this a genuine conversation, not a monologue. We are planning a yearlong, statewide series of town meetings and site visits in which we listen to as many people as possible.

Second, the report does not propose to force students out of school at 10th grade. It would allow students who are ready for college to pursue that path, and it aims to make at least 95 percent of students college-ready by 12th grade.

Third, the report does not propose to strip current teachers of their pension plans. It would provide new teachers with a package of higher salaries and private-sector-style retirement plans and make that option available to current teachers.

All of the recommendations contained in this report are just that – recommendations. Before we even consider them, we ought to discuss the report’s underlying premises. That’s where I’ll turn in next month’s installment.