New York City Teacher Ends Career By Special Education Whistle-blowing

An article in the New York Times (5/22, Powell, Subscription Publication) narrates New York special education math teacher Harris Lirtzman's decision to "blow the whistle, and so close the door on his teaching career," noting that after a career in the state Comptroller's office, Lirtzman decided to switch to teaching, and "came to love his work." However, the Times reports, "in September 2011, school administrators placed uncertified teachers - and a conga line of unemployed teachers who came for one-week stints - in classrooms filled with special education students, which is to say those children most in need of expert help." The Times notes that this was in violation of Federal regulations, and describes Lirtzman's efforts to urge administrators to change this policy, resulting in his termination. The article adds that the New York City Department of Education has faulted Lirtzman as a "disgruntled" former employee.