Fewer TA positions and more academic options for students

California schools recently implemented Assembly Bill 1012, which requires public schools to place students into more academic classes. That likely means fewer CVHS students will serve as teachers assistants (TAs) in the future.

According to State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson, the bill helps to “identify and coordinate local resources for districts with significant problems scheduling students.”

The problem we at The Olympian see is the increasing amount of  teacher assistants. In addition, when these students graduate high school, they are less likely to be prepared for college courses.

On the other hand, school service has its advantages. TAs are able to gain work experience, something impressive to put on resumes. Teachers also receive help with organization, which enables them to be more efficient in lesson planning.

However despite these positive aspects, we at The Olympian feel that the bill is a step in the right direction. It symbolizes progress toward equal education. A possible solution to the school service struggle would include setting up standards for those who desire the positions.  

Another solution is expanding the selection of electives. More class choices would benefit students in preparing them for their ideal careers. It potentially allows students to build foundational knowledge, discover unknown potentials, and find new fields of interest.

At The Olympian, we agree with the state’s decision to launch efforts to minimize non-academic classes like school service. The state correctly recognized that kids are underserved. No student deserves less than a full day’s worth of valuable learning time. All students should have access to educational opportunities so that they may succeed in college and in their chosen career.