Education writer and consultant Diane Ravitch said of her meeting last week with the Governor and Commissioner Gist that in all her years of dealing with public officials that Gist showed the most rudeness and incivility of anyone and she is waiting for an apology. WOW!
Although to the 50 NEARI local leaders and staff that met with the commissioner last night for three hours that probably does not come as a surprise. Their frustration and that of the members they represent over not having a voice in certification, evaluation and the commissioner setting opposing binding arbitration as a more important priority than all day K had many in the room upset. She also stated that teacher morale was not a priority. NEARI President Purtill commented afterwards that she should make it one. "Without the true input and support of the rank and file she will not be successful."