Good Monday morning (if there is such a thing… well, it’s more likely during summer vacation, anyways!). I spend plenty of time blogging about how Colorado can do a better job in providing education. But to be honest, our problems don’t match up with New Jersey’s.

Thus, I have to compliment New Jersey Governor Chris Christie for his courage, common sense and commitment in taking on the powerful teachers union lobby in his state. Consider the nearly five minutes watching this video time well spent (H/T Matt Ladner):

Speaking of Governor Christie’s “Hotel California” reference, Colorado teachers are blessed with greater choices than their Garden State counterparts and generally aren’t obligated to send any money to a union if they don’t wish to belong. The exception is in five school districts, where non-union teachers have to opt out of paying union dues (in most cases, every year):

• Alamosa
• Antonito (South Conejos)
• Colorado Springs 11
• Pueblo 60
• Pueblo 70

As always, check out our Independent Teachers website for your one-stop shop of information on Colorado educators’ professional membership options.