I only today realized that "Cod Check" in Boston has nothing to do with fish, but is the same unpopular teacher-voice-killer proposal that we call "Card Check" in these parts. (And now you'll probably try to tell me that Governator Schwarzenegger's "Chowder Schools" are really "Charter Schools.") Anyway, two different views to share on this:

NYC Educator thinks doing away with the secret ballot for teachers to vote on unionization will somehow reduce intimidation from crappy/vindictive management. (I think teachers should be allowed to express themselves without fear of retribution of management OR the unions/or colleagues. Let them stick it to the man, but let them decide who the man is for gosh sakes.)

Meanwhile, Mike Antonucci links to a fascinating/utterly depressing story in the Boston Globe today about the strong-arm tactics the bullies/union bosses have unleashed on teachers who were trying to improve their Beantown schools. You really think the NYSUT gorillas (who have shown in the last week how bankrupt they are in the principles department) won't do the same thing to teachers working in charter schools?

Don't forget this one, from last summer, to remind you the intimidation sword cuts both ways. The secret ballot -- which is currently how union drives work for charter schools -- emerges as the most teacher-friendly way to get at the truth.