For the record - Sept. 14, 2010

Teacher rankings: The On the Media column in the Sept. 4 Calendar section supporting The Times’ decision to publish so-called value-added rankings of teachers said rankings derived from student test results “presumably would remain confidential, as required by state law,” if such information ever went into teachers’ personnel files. Although some teachers have made that argument, the California Supreme Court has held that not all information in a personnel file is confidential and that public information placed in a personnel file does not make it a confidential record.

Drain solution: A Sept. 11 Home section profile of Priscilla Woolworth, who sells eco-friendly products online, mentioned her tips for eco-friendly living, including a recommendation to clean drains with vinegar and baking powder. The article should have said baking soda, not baking powder.

Senate race: The Capitol Journal column in the Sept. 6 Section A said that incumbent U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer was uncontested for the Democratic nomination for her seat in the June primary election. Two other Democratic candidates, Brian Quintana and Robert M. “Mickey” Kaus, were on the ballot.