Perhaps the OEA clan could do the same old march around and around with the same old signs of the time to demand (beg) money from local corporations or push for another public bondage measure?

Congratulations to the board on its new re-found authority. I hoped they picked a new superintendent who knows arithmetic?

Thank you Andy.

Dear editor:

Its wonderful that biology teachers like Andy Kwok are bringing their expertise, patience and enthusiasm for learning to the students who need it most (“Oakland teacher reflects on his first year in the classroom,” June 25). And his struggle to provide a meaningful education given the limited resources available to him is not an uncommon scenario.

Thankfully, there are modern science education tools, like virtual dissection software, that not only provide a stimulating experience for students, but can conserve schools’ valuable resources and save the lives of animals all at once. Nearly every comparative study has concluded that these methods are equivalent, or in many cases superior, to traditional animal dissection in their ability to provide students with understanding of anatomy and complex biological processes. They are also often associated with increased learning efficiency, superior examination results, student confidence and satisfaction. In fact, the California Learning Resource Network and the National Science Teachers Association both acknowledge the educational viability of these alternatives to dissection.

Next fall, Mr. Kwok can teach advanced biological concepts, introduce his students to ethical, modern scientific methods and save time and money– all without harming any animals in the name of “education.”

Justin Goodman
Research Associate Supervisor
Laboratory Investigations Department
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals
Norfolk, VA