To the Editor:

Are you frustrated by what you see happening in our public schools across California? If so, join us at www.educateourstateadvocates.org and become a part of a movement that wants to ensure that California continues on the path to improved public education.

Did you know that according to the Nation’s Report Card (NAEP) for 8th grade test scores California ranks 50th in reading, 47th in math, and 46th in science?

Did you know that California also ranks 50th in student to teacher ratios and 49th in spending per student?

Right now, by almost every measure, California is failing our students. The good news is that together we can turn things around. We have to turn things around because education is a fundamental building block of a healthy democracy, a successful society and a strong community. If we do not transform our broken educational system we will see continued economic decline, increased joblessness, and higher crime rates.

Locally, our teachers are fighting for our students every day to provide the best education they can for our children. As parents and community members we can unite to demand change on the state level so that our teachers have more resources and tools to meet student needs. Together we can fight for better schools for our children.

Please join us and become a member of this grassroots, statewide, parent-led organization. We are focused on educating and uniting Californians to advocate for systematic change that will provide all students with a high-quality public education. In just two years Educate Our State has already gained over 50,000 supporters.

Go to www.educateourstate.org and enter your email address at the top of the page. By doing so, you are making it known that you support real, systematic change to our educational system.

Also, come and join us on Tuesday, April 9 for an informational meeting at the Family Resource Center at Redway School. We will learn about how education is funded, how our local school board makes decisions based on this funding, and we will learn more about our district’s transition to Common Core Standards. There will be two meetings, one at 12 p.m. and another at 6 p.m. Choose the time that works best for your schedule. We look forward to seeing you there.

Shelby Messenger

Ettersburg