Funds to Train Teachers

Good for The Times for advocating the use of surplus state funds for training teachers, rather than reducing ninth-grade class size (“Look to the Test Scores,” editorial, Aug. 9).

The proposal to reduce class size is indeed commendable. But the quality of the teacher can make or break the class, no matter what the size. A class of 30 students with one excellent teacher, for instance, is better off than a class of 20 students with an inadequately prepared teacher.

California’s students face an array of challenges--tougher standards, English immersion required by Prop. 227 and countless special needs. Plus, the work force is increasingly demanding students who have mastered algebra, geometry, reading, and writing. And yet California still has far too many emergency-credentialed or otherwise underprepared teachers who have not had the proper training to meet all of these student needs.

At the California State University system, which prepares 60% of the state’s teachers, we have made it a priority to train even more high-quality teachers. We urge California’s policymakers to do the same.

CHARLES B. REED

Chancellor, CSU

Long Beach