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April 28, 2005
Shouldn't Protesting Kids be in school?
Today is the "Caravan for Kids", sponsored by the State PTA in Sacramento. It's a huge rally on the capitol steps during the PTA State convention. Teachers, Parents and kids will all be participating.
Um, shouldn't those kids be in school?
I understand the passion of the moment. We must stand up against the Governor! We must FIGHT for our Prop 98 Funding! We MUST take our kids out of school to make a stand!
I think this is something Parents and Teachers (who are apparently taking authorized vacation days) could do on their own.
You see, School Funding is based on ADA - Average Daily Attendance. If kids are out of school, the school doesn't get funded for that kid for that day. To take kids out of school to protest budget issues in Sacramento means that those kids aren't in school - which means their school districts get LESS money.
With me?
Protest all day long as you wish, but taking your kids out of school to do it seems a little contrary to the goals...doesn't it?
What say you?
Comments
I think it's possible that Riordan actually thought the education establishment would change or negotiate. This is startling after his experience with LAUSD, but it is what it is.
While occassionally leading with his foot in mouth instead of his heart, Riordan is a classic example of a person who doesn't need a public service job, but he does it anyway for the good of his community, and the kids who would benefit.
Posted by: Tim Keaney at April 29, 2005 01:27 PM
Hola Tim - This is a great ethical question. I think its inappropriate for parents to take their kids out of school when they are not ill. With the ADA requirements that the state puts on the schools, it ends up hurting them in the long run. Kind of ironic, eh?
What do you make of Riordan's resignation yesterday? Is the state better off without him or will he be missed? My feeling is the former. I still get a kick out of that ill-advised "stupid, dirty girl" comment he made in 2004.
Posted by: Francisco at April 28, 2005 02:54 PM