Controversy in L.A.'s Unified School District

The largest school district in California is also one of the most troubled. Over the years, there have been many reform efforts. This week, in the latest turn, the school board decided to let district teachers run most of 29 campuses intended to serve as models for reform under a program called "Public School Choice." Professor Charles Kerchner of the Claremont Graduate University School of Education has written two books about L.A. school reform. He joins us to offer his perspective on this controversial decision.

Photo: Gretchen Weber

Should Humans Help Mother Nature?

California is home to a rich diversity of plants and animals, but as the climate changes, some of those species are struggling. If habitats change faster than species can adapt, should humans step in and help?Reporter: Gretchen Weber

• More: Map: California's Shifting Climate : from Climate Watch.

Shannon E. McMillan

Theater of War

The way the ancient Greeks wrote about war and its traumas still moves us today. That's especially true for soldiers fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan. They struggle with the same universal themes of trauma, suicide and the difficulties of returning home after battle. A Defense Department funded program called "Theater of War" is bringing ancient Greek drama to military bases around the country. We report from Camp Pendleton Marine Base in San Diego.Reporter: Alison St. John

• More: Theater of War Productions : learn more about the project.

Jazz Review: Real Vocal String Quartet

Violinist Irene Sazer is best known as a founder of the innovative chamber group Turtle Island String Quartet. Sazer has always had a wide range of musical interests, lending her talents to everything from orchestras to jazz singers. On the new CD by her group, the Real Vocal String Quartet, Sazer's diverse musical vision comes into sharp focus. Jazz critic Andrew Gilbert has a review.

Photo: Lisa Morehouse

Turning Points: Sheri and Gregg Pasterick

Lots of folks fantasize about spending their lives on the road, traveling wherever, whenever. But few do it. On a recent trip to Desert Hot Springs north of Palm Springs, reporter Lisa Morehouse met a couple in their 50s who really did take to the road. We present their story as part of our ongoing series "Turning Points," profiling Californians who make life-altering decisions.Reporter: Lisa Morehouse

• More: Turning Points series page : listen to other stories.
• More: GreggPasterick.com : See Gregg's photos and learn about his book, "The Midlife Crisis B & B."