REFORM: Not proven by research

The State Department of Education has spent thousands of dollars to train educators all over the state for the past seven years to use a program called Results to Intervention (RTI).

This program is used in our schools every day and is a process to assist students who are working below grade level in reading, math, written expression including spelling and/or behavior. This program requires that schools use research-based curriculum and teaching practices that are proven by research to increase learning.

Now Supt. Luna is asking that education reform or "changes" be made to Idaho's laws through SB 1108 and SB 1110 regarding teachers' rights to negotiate salaries, benefits and working conditions with local school districts and merit pay for teachers. There is no data which is research based (or otherwise) to prove that either of these bills will alleviate Idaho's financial problems funding education. Laws which have been followed for more than 40 years will be wiped away overnight if these bills are passed. Shouldn't our state lawmakers have to use information that is researched and proven to work? Please call your legislator today and ask them to VOTE NO on SB1108 and SB 1110. Putting teachers last does not put students first!

GRETTA B. SHAY, MEd, SSP

Coeur d'Alene