Opinion: Eight former Oakland school board members say students are casualties in teacher-union political power grab
Briefly

Former Oakland school board members express concern over the current board's incompetence and political alignment, jeopardizing students' education. They highlight the imbalance in governance, noting the inexperience of the majority and unrealistic promises made to the teachers' union regarding school closures. With 80 schools serving only 34,000 students, the financial burden leads to low teacher salaries and poor academic performance compared to other districts. The members argue that the board's resistance to prudent budget adjustments is detrimental, creating a bloated structure that drains vital resources from classrooms.
The four current trustees, who compose the majority on the school board, exhibit a level of incompetence unseen in Oakland, threatening student education.
Promises made to the teachers' union by the trustees regarding school closures are unrealistic and financially irresponsible given Oakland's unsustainable 80 schools for 34,000 students.
The contrast with other districts is stark; Oakland operates the least number of students per school yet has poorer academic outcomes and the lowest teacher salaries.
The board majority's refusal to make responsible budget-balancing decisions results in a bloated structure that drains resources from classrooms, impacting teacher salaries and academic performance.
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