Even as this article is being written, negotiations are continuing and the exact language of the new legislation is being hammered out. But this much is clear: The deal the mayor struck with the union -- actually, with just one of the 10 unions we negotiate with -- is not the right way to make public policy. It threatens to unravel the academic achievements our students have accomplished. It presents the new superintendent with a divided and unaccountable line of authority. It does absolutely nothing to improve instruction, which must always be the primary goal in education reform.
Whatever changes are made to this district deserve public debate that includes those who will be affected -- parents, teachers, school administrators and students.
