Gov. Charles W. Turnbull has a lot of work to do to improve his grades, according to Glen J. Smith, president of the American Federation of Teachers. His average grade this "marking period" is a D but Smith said "we have every reason to believe his grades will improve in the next marking period."
The marking period is the first 100 days of Turnbull's administration and the AFT union prepared a report card to measure Turnbull's effectiveness in seven areas.
"This interim report card was prepared by 20 members of AFT Local 1825 Building Representative Council," Smith said.
1. Rebuilding Economy — D-
Comments: We are still awaiting completion of the assignment, "How to Improve the VI economy."
2. Fiscal Responsibility — D
Comments: The incident of delayed paychecks could have been avoided with proper planning.
3. Government Efficiency — D
Comments: Too many retirees are on the payroll. Too many exempt employees are still bloating the government.
4. Education — D
Comments: The appointment of Dr. Simmonds was well received. Many goals are still undefined.
5. Labor Relations — C-
Comments: The Governor has kept his campaign promise by meeting several times with Labor leaders. His choice of Labor Commissioner is not acceptable to Organized Labor.
6. Youth Affairs — D
Comments: Youth crime is still on the upswing. A youth commission is needed.
7. State of Territory Message — D
Comments: Shortest message in recent history. The message was short on proposed solutions to problems facing our island-nation.