Branstad’s plans for education look grim

Because I was a teacher in Iowa during all 16 years of our governor's previous terms in office, I am watching with great anticipation at what our “friend of eduction” will do this time.

I notice that he is advocating “no budget growth for Iowa schools” for the next two years. Well, that should help us to “re-establish Iowa as a world-class education leader.” However, I'm not sure how districts will be able to pay for teacher salaries, buy computers and pay for heating bills.

Government-funded preschool seems like a good idea to help those students who might prosper in school if given a chance - particular those from low socio-economic backgrounds. I see that may not happen either.

How about changing the way teachers are paid? Let's use a merit pay or performance pay instead of the traditional step ladder based on education earned and years of service. Please give me only the students that are in the top 10 percent, however, so that they are assured of scoring high on standardized achievement tests to make me look better. And, please don't make me one of the evaluators to judge which teachers should receive the largest salary increases. But, please don't ask me for any help - my ideas, my tests, my worksheets, my bulletin boards - those are things that will make “me” look better. I'm certain this will help create a fine atmosphere for teaching.

Gary Matson

Cedar Rapids