Legislation that would alter teacher tenure is expected be considered in Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Nevada, New Jersey and other states where governors have called for its elimination or reform. Budget woes also are spurring the calls for reform, as many states seek to allow potential layoffs to be done by job performance, not seniority. Dennis Van Roekel, president of the National Education Association, said the focus should be on improving the quality of incoming teachers, not making it easier to fire teachers. The New York Times (free registration) (1/31)
 

NJ Teen Launches Anti-Bullying Program     

Ashley Craig recalls a turning point in her life.  As an eighth-grade student at Sussex Middle School, a classmate and close companion sat her down at a desk.  He said, "I'm going to end it."        

She laughed it off at first, unaware of what he meant.  So he clarified, "I don't have any friends. People make fun of me. I'm going to end my life." The gravity of his words pushed Craig back into her seat. Although she was sworn to secrecy, she immediately told a guidance counselor of the boy's declaration.

The boy refused to talk to Craig for the first few days, but after he received therapy, he approached her once more. He said, "You saved my life."

Ashley has since pioneered a program called "Students Against Being Bullied," which was unanimously approved by the school board. The program involves two texting systems -- a report line that will alert the administration of bullying cases and a support line that offers counseling. It also involves a peer support group that will discuss bullying issues. Asbury Park Press (Neptune-Asbury Park, N.J.)  (1/27)