Prop. 227

Re “ ‘Gag Order’ on Prop. 227 Appears to Be Softening,” Aug. 8: There is no such gag order, and I regret that such a perception exists. Four options have been established by the Los Angeles Unified School District to comply with Proposition 227: two “English immersion” options, a mainstream English program and the traditional bilingual program made possible through a formal waiver process prescribed by the law.

I have clearly stated to principals and teachers that there shall be no advocacy by administrators or teachers in working with parents regarding the choice of options--whether in written communications, in meetings or in face-to-face conferences.

I have also made it abundantly clear that once the four options available have been fully and objectively explained to parents, teachers and administrators are free to offer their professional opinion, especially if asked by parents, regarding the most appropriate option for their children.

Professional advice, yes; advocacy, no.

As long as school people adhere to these guidelines, the district will defend them should they be legally challenged. We are committed to comply completely with both the spirit and the law of Proposition 227.

RUBEN ZACARIAS, Superintendent, LAUSD