United Chambers of Commerce Endorses Mayor’s School Reform Plan

 

LOS ANGELES – The United Chambers of Commerce of the San Fernando Valley voted today to endorse AB 1381, Mayor Villaraigosa’s education reform bill.  Representing 21 chambers of commerce and 5,000 member businesses, the endorsement of UCC is a major vote of confidence for AB 1381 and shows strong support by the Los Angeles business community for school reform.

 

“The United Chambers of Commerce studied and debated this issue thoroughly,” said UCC Board President Pamela Corradi.  “And we believe that giving the Mayor more authority over the District is a step in the right direction toward improving our schools.  The status quo is not an option. Put simply, a stronger school system is directly correlated with economic prosperity.”

 

UCC is the latest business group to back the Mayor’s plan.  This week, the Greater East Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce and the Encino Chamber of Commerce voted to endorse the bill.  AB 1381 is supported by a broad coalition that includes California’s teachers, parents, community leaders, and organized labor.  A full list of supporters is available online at: http://www.excellenceinlaschools.com/endorsements/

 

AB 1381 expands authority for the Superintendent to cut waste and bureaucracy, return money to the classroom, and boost teacher pay.  It establishes a Council of Mayors to collaborate with the District on joint use projects, school safety, and school siting.  It also creates a partnership with parents and teachers, led by Mayor Villaraigosa, to turn around the District’s lowest-performing schools. 

 

Formed in 1977, the United Chambers of Commerce promotes the San Fernando Valley's overall welfare, progress and economic prosperity.  For more information on UCC, visit http://www.unitedchambers.org.

 

For more information on AB 1381 and the Mayor’s school reform plan, visit: http://www.excellenceinlaschools.com/