Superintendent's Message
from Dr. George Mannon
December 01, 2008
The beginning of the school year has been very busy and extremely successful. The Torrance community united together and overwhelmingly passed Measures Y and Z. As we begin the task of modernizing and renovating our schools, our focus must now shift to the poor economic conditions of the State of California. The Governor is projecting mid-year revenue shortages and additional budget reductions for the education community. We continue to communicate with our State Representatives, making sure they understand the needs and concerns of TUSD. However, similar to the efforts we made at the beginning of the year to combat these reductions, we must once again send the message to the Governor and our area legislators that we cannot continue to reduce education funding. Most classes in grades 6-12 are overcrowded with some classes seating over 40 students. More cuts will have devastating consequences for the public education system. Our hard work in the spring helped make an impact in Sacramento and the Governor restored some funding that was initially cut. I urge all of you to call and write to your legislators and the Governor and make sure they know that the Torrance community will continue to fight against any additional education budget cuts.
Despite budgetary drawbacks, Torrance students continue to do extremely well in all subject areas. The District met all its Academic Yearly Progress targets for the year and continues to exceed State and National averages. The District’s Academic Performance Index (API) is 831, up 12 points from last year. Ninety percent of TUSD schools have an API over 800, whereas in California only 36% of schools have an API above 800. Talented teachers, committed classified staff and administrators, and sensible planning keeps TUSD competitive and successful.
TUSD is a unique District, with students who speak 84 different languages and have diverse cultural backgrounds. This holiday season I wish everyone happiness as they celebrate with family and friends and wish everyone a very joyful and safe New Year!
