On June 10, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Rolf Treu overturned five California laws governing teacher tenure, dismissal, and layoffs, finding that they violate the California Constitution and handcuff schools from giving every student an equal opportunity to learn from effective teachers. In his ruling, the judge remarked that the evidence presented in the case “shocks the conscience."
He sided with the nine students in this lawsuit because all California kids have a constitutional right to a good education.
But rather than stand up for California kids by changing these laws, my opponent—a named defendant in this case—has chosen to align himself with his Sacramento supporters and do nothing.
Unless we make a strong grassroots effort telling Torlakson not to appeal this ruling, you can be sure that he’ll make every effort to defend the status quo. Let's send a message that silence is not okay—we can no longer ignore a failing system in need of major change.
Sign the petition telling Tom Torlakson not to appeal this landmark ruling, and let's come together and start making the changes we need to turn our schools around.
Petition Text:
To State Superintendent Tom Torlakson:
The five laws that were struck down in Vergara v. California regarding teacher tenure, dismissal, and layoffs have made it nearly impossible to fire ineffective teachers. Instead of defending these laws, I urge you, as the defendant in this case, not to appeal this ruling. Let's use this as an opportunity to make sure our schools are finally able to put an effective teacher in every classroom.