Steven Weber wrote an excellent blog post on ASCD Edge entitled "Would I want my child in this classroom?"   Educators AND parents need to think about this question and then demand a real education for their children.  We must face the facts that what we are doing now in education is not working, and we must care enough to be willing to make the necessary changes. 

If we structured education correctly we would not have to spend so much time and money on programs like RtI (Response to Intervention) and  Race to the Top (which provided no funding to 38 states). 

No amount of programs, policies, analyzing of data, cutting out recess, cutting out nap time for kindergarteners, practice tests or drilliing students is going to help students learn.  Until we create schools and curriculum that allow teachers to teach and students to learn nothing will improve. 

We have to realize that putting students through a daily routine of changing class 7 or 8 times a day does not allow for the kind of meaningful, in-depth curriculum and instruction that results in students learning.  Nor does it provide students a productive context within which they can grow academically, socially and personally.  In authentic 21st century schools and classrooms students and teachers will realize the joy in learning, discover their unique gifts, develop creativity and so much more.


 


Comments

Steve link
04/03/2011 09:43

Hi, I am a fifth-grade teacher who is ready for a new challenge! The testing regime and the general way in which schools are run is a bit behind the times, and I'd really like to find a new context that leverages the new technologies (iPad 2s have been a big hit in my class) and my location in downtown Washington to create a fantastic learning experience for kids.
I'm hoping you may be able to help me think about options and to explore opportunities. Best, Steve

Reply
Anne Shaw link
06/28/2011 08:08

Hi, Steve,

Thanks for your note. Can you contact me by email?

Anne

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