To the Editor:
Congratulations to Randi Weingarten for her excellent Commentary “Accountability That Works,” which relates the United Federation of Teachers’ proposed four pillars of a new school evaluation system (May 14, 2008). As a 77-year-old semiretired public school veteran, I am delighted that Ms. Weingarten describes so eloquently what all school districts should put in place. There is, however, a fifth pillar, similar to the fourth, central-administration accountability, but distinct: accountability for school boards, mayors, and other officials who appropriate funds for public schools. They must be held to account for the quality of education throughout their respective districts. Our children deserve no less.
Richard Goodman
Hampton, N.H.
