I hope the tone of this story is an inaccurate reflection of the tone and content of the actual Orange County Schools meeting. The stubborn academic achievement gap between white and minority kids is a serious issue with serious implications for our economy and society. Yet, according to the story, the Orange County Schools committee chose to focus on tired platitudes about the need for better communication and trust between the system and the community. Even more incredible, these pablum-like committee goals are the result of a year’s worth of work. To top it off, if you want to read the committee report, which I’d like to do, you have to go to the district office to see it. Here’s the reality of the challenge Orange County faces: Attacking the achievement gap requires a focus on instruction, instruction, instruction. For example, kids with limited English proficiency need Direct Instruction. Then there’s the need for a re-prioritization of financial and human resources to accomplish the work. This includes turning the salary structure on its head. Teachers with in-demand skills and performance that result in higher student achievement should be paid more than teachers whose skills are in greater supply and whose impact on student achievement is small.