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Tuesday, October 29, 2013

LA schools superintendent review brings out political divides | Pass / Fail | 89.3 KPCC

LA schools superintendent review brings out political divides | Pass / Fail | 89.3 KPCC:

LA schools superintendent review brings out political divides

Los Angeles schools Supt. John Deasy  sp

AFP/AFP/Getty Images

A superintendent’s review is usually routine: board members check in on goals such as raising test scores and increasing graduation rates.
But a public uproar has turned Superintendent John Deasy’s review on Tuesday into a political referendum.
The upswing in interest began late last week, when local media reported Deasy had told some board members he is considering stepping down in February.
Deasy responded by saying he hadn't formally resigned — but declined to speak about his intentions — until after Tuesday's review.
That sent shock waves through the city, with leaders and various groups weighing in publicly. There have been newspaper editorials; a group of business leaders signed a letter in support of Deasy; a group of parents are leading a letter writing campaign against him and a group of nonprofits is holding a rally at 10:30 a.m. for or against Deasy.
Board member Steve Zimmer said any thought that the board was planning to oust the 

New advice from pediatricians on screen time for kids
Apple’s iPad is a hot holiday gift this year — for kids, too.; Credit: Holtsman/Flickr Creative Commons License Don't be surprised if the next time you take your child to a check-up, the pediatrician asks about screen time. The American Association of Pediatrics has released new guidelines on children's use of electronic devices. The group recommends parents make a “media use plan” with clear rul