LOS ANGELES — State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell today criticized Governor Schwarzenegger's veto of SB 414 [http://www.gov.ca.gov/pdf/press/vetoes_2005/SB_414_veto.pdf] (Outside Source) by Senator Elaine Alquist (D-Santa Clara).

"I am disappointed that Governor Schwarzenegger vetoed SB 414 by Senator Alquist which would have reauthorized California's mathematics and reading professional development program for teachers," O'Connell said. "This program provides training on the use of standards-aligned instructional materials and is a key component of our standards based education reform efforts. This reauthorization bill also included specific training to ensure that we meet the needs of students with disabilities and English learners.

"Sustained, focused professional learning is one of the major reasons we have seen improved student performance. As of June 30 of this year, more than 75,000 teachers in California have received this training. Unfortunately, this is a fraction of the number of teachers who need this support in the classroom.

"The Governor's veto message specifies concerns with the bill that were never raised by his office or his Department of Finance throughout the entire legislative process.  As a result, the Governor's veto of SB 414 now puts in jeopardy critical professional development for thousands of California teachers."