New superintendent in New Orleans begins by firing 250 teachers

Recovery School District will use teacher evaluations in deciding layoffs

Almost 250 teachers will lose their jobs this summer at New Orleans schools run by the state's Recovery School District in what's become an annual occurrence as officials close down underperforming schools and convert others into charters.

But this year layoffs will be different, and likely controversial.

For the first time, the district will use teacher evaluations to decide which instructors have the chance to apply for another job at the RSD. And layoffs will not be limited to teachers at the eight schools that are closing; any teacher scoring low enough on state evaluations will be let go as well.

The moves come as the first concrete indication that John White, who officially took charge of the RSD this week, will continue charging ahead with the reforms set in motion by his predecessor, Paul Vallas, and the outgoing state superintendent, Paul Pastorek.

more . . . http://www.nola.com/education/index.ssf/2011/05/evaluations_will_determine_whe.html

Last Wednesday I had the pleasure of their company at the city's oldest high school.

I must say, these people and their students are the loveliest people I've every had the pleasure to serve.

The students, especially, were cordial and very adult in their manner.

I know this has little to do with the OP, except to say that I wish them all the best under these crazy circumstances.

:patriot:

PS: Do try the crab fingers at Mandina's on Canal.

I'll do all I can to support the students and teachers in NO.