While our kids’ education is first-class in nearly all parts of the state, another truth is that in too many districts, entire generations of children aren’t learning the basic skills is reading, writing, and science. Especially where schools are failing — particularly in our urban districts — we have an obligation to reject the status quo in favor of new, innovative approaches, I support school choice and vouchers in these districts to give kids and parents locked into failing schools the ability to choose the right school for their individual needs. I support merit pay for our best teachers. And I firmly believe that the quality of one’s education should be based on more than the dollars spent on it. Above all, I am committed to improving our worst schools while protecting our best.

Letter to NJEA President Joyce Powell from Governor-hopeful Chris Christie on why he won’t be seeking the teacher union’s endorsement.