When former federal prosecutor and education newcomer Alan Bersin took over the San Diego Schools in 1998 he promised to unequivocally raise student achievement.
Implementing an ambitious “Blueprint for Student Success,” Bersin’s efforts have contributed to improved countywide elementary test scores, particularly in math and literacy. But his management style has also raised the ire of San Diego’s teachers’ union and parents. Many within the district felt that other education programs were lost within the Blueprint’s emphasis on remedial skills. Earlier this year, the school board asked Superintendent Bersin to step down.
However this apparent setback quickly became something of a promotion. In a few weeks, Bersin, a lifelong Democrat, will be headed to Sacramento to become Governor Schwarzenegger’s pick as the next California State Secretary for Education.
- Lessons from San Diego, The Education Gadfly, The Thomas B. Fordham Foundation
- Blueprint for Student Success, San Diego City Schools
- San Diego Education Association, teachers union
- “Bersin to be state education secretary,” The San Diego Union-Tribune