SACRAMENTO — State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell today released this statement regarding the settlement of Williams v. State of California, brought by the American Civil Liberties Union in 2000:

"I am pleased that after more than four years, the Williams v. State of California lawsuit has been settled. There is no question that settling this case is much better for our schools than continued litigation.

"The agreement takes some positive steps toward assisting our students, but leaves me with some concerns. This settlement relies heavily on bureaucratic solutions and detailing resources government should put into schools, rather than focusing on desired results — increased student achievement. While it is important to give the public a clearer idea of how resources are distributed, surely more important is actually providing the resources to ensure that our children are receiving a world-class education.

"I continue to believe a more comprehensive approach is needed. There is no doubt that we can do a better job of funding education in California. What is really needed is a comprehensive evaluation of what it takes to achieve the desired 'output' of proficiency for all our students.

"It was for this purpose that the Legislature created the Quality Education Commission, whose charge is to define adequacy in our schools and develop a roadmap for achieving it. Unfortunately, in order for this commission to begin its critical work, the Governor must appoint its remaining members. I once again call upon the Governor to make these appointments as soon as possible so we can get this important process underway."