Sacramento, California - State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson today announced that more than 80 school districts have submitted applications to participate in a spring symposium that will launch a groundbreaking new initiative designed to foster improved labor-management collaboration.

"I believe in teamwork and T.E.A.M. Together Everyone Accomplishes More," said Torlakson. "That's why I am so pleased at the high level of interest expressed by districts in attending. This symposium is aimed at building partnerships between labor and management and enhancing teamwork in ways that will benefit all school children."

The effort, cosponsored by the California Department of Education (CDE), is part of Torlakson's plan to transform education through greater teamwork at all levels, higher academic standards, improved student assessment, greater local control, and more investment in schools. The California Labor Management Initiative Symposium is scheduled to take place on May 8 and 9 in San Diego.

"We are thrilled to see so many school districts from across California express interest in learning more about the critical role collaboration plays in local education," said David Rattray, co-chair of Californians Dedicated to Education Foundation.

The foundation is a cosponsor of the event, along with the CDE, the Association of California School Administrators, California Federation of Teachers, California School Boards Association, California School Employees Association, and the California Teachers Association.

More information can be found at California Labor Management Initiative