Through the (“Tax Expenditure”) Looking Glass

It’s no secret that the California Teachers Association has no love for tax credit legislation. To illustrate the point, one need look no farther than AB 337, a bill authored by California Assemblymember Reginald Jones-Sawyer in 2015, that proposed a modest tax credit (to a maximum benefit of $250) for out-of-pocket expenses incurred…

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The Circle

When I was a teenager, I made a solemn vow that, should I ever become a parent, I would never, ever, ever tell my kids to “turn down that noise!” Flawed human that I am, I have failed to fulfill my share of resolutions and have, at times, fallen short of my self-expectations. It…

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What Has Gone Wrong at the CDE?

 

Yes, that’s a loaded title, and lest it overly prejudice an open-minded reading of what follows, let me begin by offering credit where credit is due, and recognizing the good.  The California Department of Education does not lack for outstanding talent, leadership, and dedication. CDE staff are hard working public servants, seasoned educators and…

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For Your Consideration…

During the course of the week leading to the California Legislature’s February 16 deadline for the introduction of proposed legislation for the current year, some 3,200 bills saw the light of day at the State Capitol.  We are still in the process of sifting through the…

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Caution: Legislation Ahead!

As you read these words you are most likely looking ahead to the upcoming winter break, holidays, and New Year.  The next few weeks are certain to rush by in a blur.  Blink your eyes and it will be January, 2018.  Not only will you have…

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