Schwarzenegger launches 'California School Finder'
22 July 2008
Inspired by thoughts of empowering parents, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger announced the launch of a new website designed to make information on all schools in the state easy to find. The site, 'California School Finder,' allows users to search by area or zip code, with easy to understand results.
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School Transparency
Created through a partnership with Microsoft and Google, each school listing will include a detailed area map, Academic Performance Index (API) scores going back two years, how much district money is spent per pupil and a breakdown of student demographics.[1] All information comes directly from the school districts, and can also include a great wealth of other information, ranging from AP classes offered and after school programs to API growth from year to year.
Regarding the site, Secretary of Education Dave Long stated, "This site will provide accurate and valuable school data in a clear and concise way that will empower parents to make meaningful decisions regarding the education of their children."[2]
With only a few clicks, a parent is able to research schools and compare them side by side on factors such as graduation rate and API scores. To this end, some have envisioned this as a new tool that would let schools effectively campaign for students.
"A Fantastic Resource"
Gov. Schwarzenegger saw the launch as a huge step forward for parents, saying, "School Finder is a fantastic resource that brings together information about California's schools and makes it easily accessible for parents. This vital information, compiled in one easy-to-navigate site, will increase school accountability and transparency, and put power back into the hands of California parents."[3]
Besides traditional elementary, jr. high, and high schools, the site also features information on alternative schools, as well as adult education and charter schools.
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