So I really like Senator Jenny Oropeza of California's state senate. She's smart, she's a firecracker. She's been a vocal advocate in her district of Long Beach for the environment, transportation, health, and election reform. Most importantly, she's done some great things for Long Beach's school system. Personally, I'd consider her for Secretary of Education. Here's why:
From Wikipedia.Oropeza was a member of the Long Beach School Board from 1988 to 1994. Oropeza helped create the policies and programs that turned around the Long Beach School District. Today the district, which was awarded the 2003 Broad Prize for Urban Education, is nationally recognized as a model for reform and academic success. Oropeza led the effort to close the achievement gap and focus resources on underserved communities. She worked to create the highly regarded and innovative International School in her district, as a joint use project with the city.
I find that very impressive and think she could be up to handle the job of reforming our national education system. I think she could really focus on improving urban schools and help put much needed focus on the issue. In addition, I figure if she can improve a district that was hurting that bad, she could perhaps bring that to the national stage. But, what do I know?
Also, check out this great clip. A little insight into why I call her a "firecracker".
1 comment:
One would imagine that federal ducation secretaries of the recent past would be as bad as Bush appointee Rod Paige. But there he is. Former leader of the Houston schools, he followed in the slipstream of Texas officials upon Bush's first term. It was his policies which led to No Child Left Behind, in fact that act was directly modeled on his version. Problem was that his reported 1.5 percent dropout rate was actually more like 40 percent.
The reason I mention that is because there is at least precedent for having a local or municipal official appointed to such a position. (Besides, of course, having such a strong candidate in Oropeza for the position.) I'll be researching more about her credentials and achievements, and would put her on a shortlist for some kind of promotion in an Obama White House.
Post a Comment