At the outset, I will tell you that I am not an authority on the manner in which charters are financed. One of the major reasons I'm not an expert is because there are so many different charters and their contracts with different agencies are written differently. The point here is that ambiguous language, within the contract, may lead to hardships for the charter school in terms of getting their hands on the funds they are entitled to.
That being said here are some major points concerning the funding of charters. Depending on the study you research, you will find that public charters get anywhere from 61% to 70% of the funding that conventional public schools receive.
What the various states provide to public charters, as compared to traditional public schools, varies wildly from state to state. A charter in Missouri receives 99% of what its counterpart public school obtains while in New Hampshire a charter takes in a paltry 37% of what a public school is able to garner. Given such a monetary restriction, how can such a charter really be effective?
Charters receive public funds just like a neighborhood school. Charters cannot, by law, charge an admission fee nor can charters have access to local bond measures. Imagine, then, if a charter wants to expand in size. That lack of a bonding measure creates a real dilemma. Charters can, and do, receive funds through gifts and donations.
As you can see charters, for the most part, are not getting the same funds as public schools. As the trend continues towards creating more charters, I see the funding issue as becoming quite problematic.
As local, city, and state governments 'off load' (aka get rid of) schools to chartering agencies, given the current climate of these government agencies to shed debt, I have real concerns that any of these government agencies will be in a hurry to assist charter schools who have critical funding needs.
I see the day coming when disputes will arise between traditional public schools and charter public schools over the issue of garnering funds from the same and various governing bodies.
Will the day come when charters demand to be funded at the same rate as traditional public schools? Will charters bring suit on this matter? Will the day come when public charters will generate additional needed funds through an admission fee? Generally speaking, what will happen to the quality of charter education if the charters find themselves in a financial bind? I can tell you, in the short history of charter schools, some have 'gone under' for financial reasons.
I raise all of these issues because having different types of public schooling systems seems likely to create some very severe funding problems going forward.
Thanks,
Dick
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Charters, Part I
I won't hesitate to say that there are charters, like the majority of traditional public schools, that do an excellent job of educating young people. There are also charters, like some public schools, that don't perform well. However, given the relatively short lifespan of charters, the verdict is still out.
What I can tell you is that there are many aspects of charters that present problems and, going forward, I believe they will become more apparent in the coming years.
One of the issues that most people will find confusing deals with the manner in which charters are organized. To start with, the different states have to give their approval for a certain number of charters to be created. Given the fact that a state sanctions the charter, the school develops a contract.
In exchange for this arrangement, depending on the state, many of the requirements made of tradtional public schools are dropped for the charter.
Though the state is the agency that allows charter schools, who issues the charter is the next critical issue and this is where things can get messy. Schools may have a charter issued by local school districts, universities/colleges, a non-profit corporation or a for-profit company. For example, in Maryland, only a local school district may issue a charter. No other entity can perform this function. In Arkansas charters are issued by the State Board of Education. In some states all of the above agencies may have the ability to issue charters.
Talk about confusion! I have real concerns that so many different issuing groups, though well intended, have a good grasp of how to properly assist or point the charter school in the right direction. I am sure that there are some good issuing agencies and some poor ones.
Another huge concern centers around the fact that a school can be chartered by a for-profit company. I'll be blunt on this point...I don't want to see public education, in the form of charters or any other structure, being run for a profit. Right now Wisconsin, California, Michigan and Arizona allow for-profit companies to issue charters.
Taken together, based on the above, I see a long-term movement where municipalities will allow their schools to be 'off loaded' to firms who want to make a profit. Local, county, and state government bodies should never allow this to happen. These government agencies have few responsibilities more important than providing for a an excellent public education.
Yes, public education needs to be retooled (as always) and assisted, not sold off to the highest bidder!
Dick
What I can tell you is that there are many aspects of charters that present problems and, going forward, I believe they will become more apparent in the coming years.
One of the issues that most people will find confusing deals with the manner in which charters are organized. To start with, the different states have to give their approval for a certain number of charters to be created. Given the fact that a state sanctions the charter, the school develops a contract.
In exchange for this arrangement, depending on the state, many of the requirements made of tradtional public schools are dropped for the charter.
Though the state is the agency that allows charter schools, who issues the charter is the next critical issue and this is where things can get messy. Schools may have a charter issued by local school districts, universities/colleges, a non-profit corporation or a for-profit company. For example, in Maryland, only a local school district may issue a charter. No other entity can perform this function. In Arkansas charters are issued by the State Board of Education. In some states all of the above agencies may have the ability to issue charters.
Talk about confusion! I have real concerns that so many different issuing groups, though well intended, have a good grasp of how to properly assist or point the charter school in the right direction. I am sure that there are some good issuing agencies and some poor ones.
Another huge concern centers around the fact that a school can be chartered by a for-profit company. I'll be blunt on this point...I don't want to see public education, in the form of charters or any other structure, being run for a profit. Right now Wisconsin, California, Michigan and Arizona allow for-profit companies to issue charters.
Taken together, based on the above, I see a long-term movement where municipalities will allow their schools to be 'off loaded' to firms who want to make a profit. Local, county, and state government bodies should never allow this to happen. These government agencies have few responsibilities more important than providing for a an excellent public education.
Yes, public education needs to be retooled (as always) and assisted, not sold off to the highest bidder!
Dick
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Public Schooling and Charters
Over the next few days I will be taking a look at charter schools within our public education framework. This is a discussion about public schooling and not a public vs. private dialogue. The charter school movement is extensive and growing, displacing plenty of traditional public schools.
At the outset, I will mention that I find the charter school movement troubling on various counts. I acknowledge, at the same time, that some traditional public schools are having a difficult time. I won't sugarcoat that issue.
Charters, by their nature are different, in many respects, from traditional schools and from each other. I will point out that different, in this case, is not necessarily better and this issue demands our scrutiny.
Prior to detailing some of the issues we will examine, I want to make it clear that I believe the charter movement, though many of its founders and adherents are well intentioned, with its current rapid growth is often ill advised. Many public schools and municipalities are in debt and one of the ways of getting rid of the debt is to disavow the responsibility for providing a traditional public education.
I believe that there is no greater service to provide to the public than a free public education to all that is based on excellence. Debt is not a good reason to 'off load' public schools. It is a shirking of responsibility to the public at large.
I make no apology for my stance...localities, cities, towns, the states and the nation should be careful about the long term possible effects of turning over responsibility of public education to a wide variety of charter schools.
Some of the issues we will examine include; funding, organization and structure, accountability, effects on children and existing schools, successes and failures, and more.
I want you to know that the presentation is based on much research rather than a simple personal dislike of charters. I hope you find the series to be beneficial.
Thanks,
Dick
At the outset, I will mention that I find the charter school movement troubling on various counts. I acknowledge, at the same time, that some traditional public schools are having a difficult time. I won't sugarcoat that issue.
Charters, by their nature are different, in many respects, from traditional schools and from each other. I will point out that different, in this case, is not necessarily better and this issue demands our scrutiny.
Prior to detailing some of the issues we will examine, I want to make it clear that I believe the charter movement, though many of its founders and adherents are well intentioned, with its current rapid growth is often ill advised. Many public schools and municipalities are in debt and one of the ways of getting rid of the debt is to disavow the responsibility for providing a traditional public education.
I believe that there is no greater service to provide to the public than a free public education to all that is based on excellence. Debt is not a good reason to 'off load' public schools. It is a shirking of responsibility to the public at large.
I make no apology for my stance...localities, cities, towns, the states and the nation should be careful about the long term possible effects of turning over responsibility of public education to a wide variety of charter schools.
Some of the issues we will examine include; funding, organization and structure, accountability, effects on children and existing schools, successes and failures, and more.
I want you to know that the presentation is based on much research rather than a simple personal dislike of charters. I hope you find the series to be beneficial.
Thanks,
Dick
Monday, April 25, 2011
An Ugly Discussion
Over this past weekend I had the opportunity to chat with some friends about education, the poor, and the role of government in dealing with these two issues as well as other social and political concerns. To say the least, I found their comments shocking...insensitive and mean-spirited.
To these people, those without the means to better themselves have only themselves to blame. Their argument goes like this - because they are poor, without jobs, or are lacking in education why should people with the monetary means have to help them. My friends contend that they are all lazy and don't merit our help!
Are you kidding?! Not help other humans who are down and out!
What's more, not only do these folks think those with the means to help others shouldn't have to do so they also rant that the government should not aid those in peril. They feel the government should do nothing to aid the destitute. They feel that everything from food stamps to Pell Grants to the Dept. of Education to Medicare is a waste and ought to be done away with.
I left these discussions (well, lectures) both horrified and aghast. Their indifference and disdain for those without the means to better themselves was beyond comprehension.
I also walked away grateful that our charity does so much good for so many. What my friends don't realize it that they simply energized me to continue to work with our wonderful donors and volunteers.
Dick
To these people, those without the means to better themselves have only themselves to blame. Their argument goes like this - because they are poor, without jobs, or are lacking in education why should people with the monetary means have to help them. My friends contend that they are all lazy and don't merit our help!
Are you kidding?! Not help other humans who are down and out!
What's more, not only do these folks think those with the means to help others shouldn't have to do so they also rant that the government should not aid those in peril. They feel the government should do nothing to aid the destitute. They feel that everything from food stamps to Pell Grants to the Dept. of Education to Medicare is a waste and ought to be done away with.
I left these discussions (well, lectures) both horrified and aghast. Their indifference and disdain for those without the means to better themselves was beyond comprehension.
I also walked away grateful that our charity does so much good for so many. What my friends don't realize it that they simply energized me to continue to work with our wonderful donors and volunteers.
Dick
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Kids4Good Pitch In!
Non-profits do amazing things for others throughout the world. Often these charities combine forces and they have even a greater impact. That's the case with our friends at Kids4Good (www.Kids4Good.org).
Under the leadership of Cynthia McGann and Mary Beth Owano Kids4Good has had a powerful impact on helping the children at IMN School in Haiti. They have been assisting this school prior to the Jan. 2010 earthquake and they have taken a lead role in rebuilding the school since that fateful day.
Aside from all of their work with IMN, Kids4Good has assisted Schools Count Corp with our 'Go Green' initiative. I want to thank everyone associated with Kids4Good for continuing their efforts in Haiti in addition to coming to the aid of Schools Count.
Once again this year, like last year, Kids4Good will participate in our 'Go Green' endeavor which involves collecting 'gently used' student supplies at the conclusion of each school year.
This year, under the leadership of Mary Beth Owano, Mark Delay Elementary School, Lace Elementary School and Eisenhower Jr. High will be donating student supplies at the end of the year. I want to thank the students, staff, parents and Kids4Good for helping us get supplies to those deserving students in Chicago Public Schools.
As I said earlier, when charities combine forces they do amazing things! Such is the case with Kids4Good and Schools Count Corp
Dick
Under the leadership of Cynthia McGann and Mary Beth Owano Kids4Good has had a powerful impact on helping the children at IMN School in Haiti. They have been assisting this school prior to the Jan. 2010 earthquake and they have taken a lead role in rebuilding the school since that fateful day.
Aside from all of their work with IMN, Kids4Good has assisted Schools Count Corp with our 'Go Green' initiative. I want to thank everyone associated with Kids4Good for continuing their efforts in Haiti in addition to coming to the aid of Schools Count.
Once again this year, like last year, Kids4Good will participate in our 'Go Green' endeavor which involves collecting 'gently used' student supplies at the conclusion of each school year.
This year, under the leadership of Mary Beth Owano, Mark Delay Elementary School, Lace Elementary School and Eisenhower Jr. High will be donating student supplies at the end of the year. I want to thank the students, staff, parents and Kids4Good for helping us get supplies to those deserving students in Chicago Public Schools.
As I said earlier, when charities combine forces they do amazing things! Such is the case with Kids4Good and Schools Count Corp
Dick
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Jean-Claude Brizard to Head CPS
Mayor Elect Rahm Emanuel shook things up over the past couple of days by appointing a new CEO, Jean-Claude Brizard, for the Chicago Public Schools in addition to naming an entirely new Chicago School Board. No doubt changes in the school system will accompany the changes in personnel.
The new CPS chief has been the Superintendent of the Rochester Public School system for the past four years. Prior to that he worked in the New York City school system for 21 years, starting as a junior high science teacher and high school physics teacher. Later he was to serve as regional superintendent in the NYC system.
I will reserve judgement on Mr. Brizard pending his performance. Mr. Brizard does have an education and managerial background. Most people wanted someone with a history in the field of education so that is a plus.
There is little doubt however that Mr. Brizard leaves a Rochester system where a number of teachers weren't very enthused with some of the Superintendent's ideas and manner of implementing them. According to the Rochester teachers union Mr. Brizard seems to favor merit pay while wanting to set up charter schools and to close underperforming ones.
No matter what ones ideas are about school reform, and that is open to serious debate, one thing is certain, whatever your ideas, you had better darn well find a way to get everyone on board and to buy-in. That goes for Mr. Brizard, anyone in the CPS system, the School Board and Mr. Mayor Elect Emanuel.
Thanks,
Dick
The new CPS chief has been the Superintendent of the Rochester Public School system for the past four years. Prior to that he worked in the New York City school system for 21 years, starting as a junior high science teacher and high school physics teacher. Later he was to serve as regional superintendent in the NYC system.
I will reserve judgement on Mr. Brizard pending his performance. Mr. Brizard does have an education and managerial background. Most people wanted someone with a history in the field of education so that is a plus.
There is little doubt however that Mr. Brizard leaves a Rochester system where a number of teachers weren't very enthused with some of the Superintendent's ideas and manner of implementing them. According to the Rochester teachers union Mr. Brizard seems to favor merit pay while wanting to set up charter schools and to close underperforming ones.
No matter what ones ideas are about school reform, and that is open to serious debate, one thing is certain, whatever your ideas, you had better darn well find a way to get everyone on board and to buy-in. That goes for Mr. Brizard, anyone in the CPS system, the School Board and Mr. Mayor Elect Emanuel.
Thanks,
Dick
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Schools Count Receives Large Grant
Yesterday, in many ways, was a watershed day for Schools Count Corp with respect to our efforts in the Chicago Public Schools. Archer Daniels Midland Foundation awarded Schools Count Corp $10,000.00 for our work in the CPS system. To date, this is the largest grant we've ever received in the four short years of our existence.
The largest portion of the grant will be used to provide for CPS schools on the north side of the city. Schools which will benefit from the generous grant include Von Humboldt Elementary, Lafayette Elementary, Lowell Elementary, Yates Elementary and other area schools.
Archer Daniels Midland Foundation has long assisted city schools so we are pleased to announce the receipt of the grant to further aid students and schools in need.
Not only did ADM make this sizeable contribution but a number of their employees have indicated a willingness to help collect school supplies in addition to volunteering to help us deliver supplies to schools this August. Talk about a generosity and kindness.
It is companies like ADM who care about their neighbors, right next door, and are willing to step up to assist them that make us proud to be associated with them. To one and all at ADM please accept our thanks for your tremendous donation.
Dick
The largest portion of the grant will be used to provide for CPS schools on the north side of the city. Schools which will benefit from the generous grant include Von Humboldt Elementary, Lafayette Elementary, Lowell Elementary, Yates Elementary and other area schools.
Archer Daniels Midland Foundation has long assisted city schools so we are pleased to announce the receipt of the grant to further aid students and schools in need.
Not only did ADM make this sizeable contribution but a number of their employees have indicated a willingness to help collect school supplies in addition to volunteering to help us deliver supplies to schools this August. Talk about a generosity and kindness.
It is companies like ADM who care about their neighbors, right next door, and are willing to step up to assist them that make us proud to be associated with them. To one and all at ADM please accept our thanks for your tremendous donation.
Dick
Monday, April 18, 2011
Some Random Thoughts
This past Saturday I had the opportunity to watch Robert Redford's latest movie, The Conspirator . The film takes place near the end of the Civil War and focuses on the conspirators (and alleged, in this case a lady by the name of Mary Surratt) associated with the assassination of President Lincoln.
What does such a true story have to do with the work of Schools Count Corp.? On the surface, not whole lot. But in another significant way, a meaningful theme, common to the film and our work, ran through my mind.
The film has more to do with justice being served than determining if Ms. Surratt is guilty or innocent with respect to a crime. Are the generals being fair as they run the proceedings? Do the townspeople and country even want a fair trial? Is the War Secretary, Bennett, meddling in the affairs of the trial to the extent that Ms. Surratt and her attorney, Mr. Aiken, couldn't properly present their case. I walked away from the movie, knowing that justice wasn't served.
That's how I often feel with respect to inner city school children. They often simply come from neighborhood and family environments where they don't have the tools and resources to be successful. I believe that is an injustice. I'm not looking for who is at fault, I simply think it is a miscarriage of justice.
Our system of democracy needs an educated public. It is one of the tenants of a noble and decent society. When millions of students are left behind, often not due to anything they have done wrong, something is not right. Our society can, and must, be more just.
Thanks,
Dick
What does such a true story have to do with the work of Schools Count Corp.? On the surface, not whole lot. But in another significant way, a meaningful theme, common to the film and our work, ran through my mind.
The film has more to do with justice being served than determining if Ms. Surratt is guilty or innocent with respect to a crime. Are the generals being fair as they run the proceedings? Do the townspeople and country even want a fair trial? Is the War Secretary, Bennett, meddling in the affairs of the trial to the extent that Ms. Surratt and her attorney, Mr. Aiken, couldn't properly present their case. I walked away from the movie, knowing that justice wasn't served.
That's how I often feel with respect to inner city school children. They often simply come from neighborhood and family environments where they don't have the tools and resources to be successful. I believe that is an injustice. I'm not looking for who is at fault, I simply think it is a miscarriage of justice.
Our system of democracy needs an educated public. It is one of the tenants of a noble and decent society. When millions of students are left behind, often not due to anything they have done wrong, something is not right. Our society can, and must, be more just.
Thanks,
Dick
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Still Time to Contribute
It's hard to believe but it is that time of the year...time to call and visit Chicago Public Schools to assess their needs and the number of supplies necessary for the start of school in late July/early August.
There are two huge factors that contribute to the number of schools we can assist in New Orleans and Chicago. Both the number of products donated to us in our 'Go Green' initiative and our monetary donations (used to purchase new school supplies) dictate how many children we can help.
Right now around 22-23 schools will be contributing 'gently used' supplies at the conclusion of the current school year. I am certain that we will collect thousands of notebooks, binders and sheets of loose leaf paper not to mention pens, pencils, backpacks, scissors, ruler, colored markers and more. These donated supplies will greatly augment our ability to help deserving students.
I would like to ask you to consider making a donation to Schools Count Corp, over the next few weeks (by May 15th if possible), so that I will know exactly how much we have available to spend on new supplies.
To make a donation simply make your check payable to Schools Count Corp and mail it to Dick Flesher, 20048 S. Kohlwood Dr., Mokena, IL. 60448. Remember, your contribution is 100% tax deductible as a charitable contribution for 2011.
I do appreciate your consideration of making a donation to our charity. I am sure you will find the financial assistance rendered to students-in-need most rewarding.
Many thanks,
Dick
There are two huge factors that contribute to the number of schools we can assist in New Orleans and Chicago. Both the number of products donated to us in our 'Go Green' initiative and our monetary donations (used to purchase new school supplies) dictate how many children we can help.
Right now around 22-23 schools will be contributing 'gently used' supplies at the conclusion of the current school year. I am certain that we will collect thousands of notebooks, binders and sheets of loose leaf paper not to mention pens, pencils, backpacks, scissors, ruler, colored markers and more. These donated supplies will greatly augment our ability to help deserving students.
I would like to ask you to consider making a donation to Schools Count Corp, over the next few weeks (by May 15th if possible), so that I will know exactly how much we have available to spend on new supplies.
To make a donation simply make your check payable to Schools Count Corp and mail it to Dick Flesher, 20048 S. Kohlwood Dr., Mokena, IL. 60448. Remember, your contribution is 100% tax deductible as a charitable contribution for 2011.
I do appreciate your consideration of making a donation to our charity. I am sure you will find the financial assistance rendered to students-in-need most rewarding.
Many thanks,
Dick
Friday, April 15, 2011
Teachers Can Handle the 'Huge Changes'
Within the past forty-eight hours, the Illinois State legislature has proposed changes to tenure, the length of the school day and year, job layoffs, dismissing teachers, holding strikes and more.
Some people within the field, or outside of it, may view these changes with some reluctance or skepticism. The vast majority of teachers and other professionals will handle these changes with very little difficulty.
Here's why. The agreements were arrived at through negotiations. Whenever changes take place within the education profession that are done through collective bargaining, the constituents will typically accept them and move on. Groups of people gathered together, in this instance, to determine the way forward with respect to helping students. The result was arrived at through discussion and that sure beats someone 'from on high' dictating the path ahead.
Also, anyone who has taught any length of time knows that, within their own discipline, updates, modifications, inventions and changes occur with great frequency. As teachers, we are use to changes, it is part of our job description! Flexibility is part of our lexicon.
As in the past, I think the general public will find that teachers will continue to do their jobs and do them quite well.
Thanks,
Dick
Some people within the field, or outside of it, may view these changes with some reluctance or skepticism. The vast majority of teachers and other professionals will handle these changes with very little difficulty.
Here's why. The agreements were arrived at through negotiations. Whenever changes take place within the education profession that are done through collective bargaining, the constituents will typically accept them and move on. Groups of people gathered together, in this instance, to determine the way forward with respect to helping students. The result was arrived at through discussion and that sure beats someone 'from on high' dictating the path ahead.
Also, anyone who has taught any length of time knows that, within their own discipline, updates, modifications, inventions and changes occur with great frequency. As teachers, we are use to changes, it is part of our job description! Flexibility is part of our lexicon.
As in the past, I think the general public will find that teachers will continue to do their jobs and do them quite well.
Thanks,
Dick
Thursday, April 14, 2011
'Huge Changes' for Schools
This is the title of a Chicago Sun Times article from Thursday's, April 14 edition. The article outlines various changes to CPS and non-CPS schools that the Illinois State Legislature is ready to vote on.
One of the noteworthy points is the fact that the items in the legislation were arrived at by including teachers, union officials, reform groups, business personnel, school boards and legislators. That is wise as any agreement must necessarily include all of the stakeholders.
Here are some general points (and some specific ones) included in the legislation. The plan would reduce the period of time it would take school boards to dismiss poor performing tenured teachers. The legislation also enables the state school superintendent new power to rescind the teaching certificate of a poor teacher.
The proposed legislation calls for the CPS to lengthen its school day or school year. This is something I have proposed for some period of time. If the day or school year is extended then the collective bargaining process would be engaged in if there is to be additional pay or benefits for the added time of teaching. As it should be!!
One of the last items contained in the package deals with the sticky issue of tenure. It would be granted to new staff only if the teacher has positive evaluations in two of three years during the four year probationary cycle. I see no reason why it can't be upped to include three years.
In general, it is a pretty solid piece of legislation however, some questions remain such as the evaluation process (who decides its make-up and who does the evaluation?), who determines the added length of the school day or year and what is an appropriate amount to pay teachers for the added instruction time? These are but a few of the important questions that need to be answered in order for there to be a reasonable chance of success.
Thanks,
Dick
One of the noteworthy points is the fact that the items in the legislation were arrived at by including teachers, union officials, reform groups, business personnel, school boards and legislators. That is wise as any agreement must necessarily include all of the stakeholders.
Here are some general points (and some specific ones) included in the legislation. The plan would reduce the period of time it would take school boards to dismiss poor performing tenured teachers. The legislation also enables the state school superintendent new power to rescind the teaching certificate of a poor teacher.
The proposed legislation calls for the CPS to lengthen its school day or school year. This is something I have proposed for some period of time. If the day or school year is extended then the collective bargaining process would be engaged in if there is to be additional pay or benefits for the added time of teaching. As it should be!!
One of the last items contained in the package deals with the sticky issue of tenure. It would be granted to new staff only if the teacher has positive evaluations in two of three years during the four year probationary cycle. I see no reason why it can't be upped to include three years.
In general, it is a pretty solid piece of legislation however, some questions remain such as the evaluation process (who decides its make-up and who does the evaluation?), who determines the added length of the school day or year and what is an appropriate amount to pay teachers for the added instruction time? These are but a few of the important questions that need to be answered in order for there to be a reasonable chance of success.
Thanks,
Dick
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Where to go on School Reform
Over the past month I have spent a good deal of time trying to de-bunk some of the current arguments regarding school reform. It's as if everyone blames unions, teachers, tenure, central bureaucracy, and other factors for the failings of some schools.
As I noted recently, in total, our schools aren't failing.
Do changes need to be to improve the quality of teaching and learning. Of course!! It doesn't matter where you stand on the issue of school reform, it makes common sense to always look for ways to get better.
I am thoroughly convinced that the vast majority of school personnel want to get better at helping students. I am convinced that the proposals I am suggesting would be embraced by a good number of people within, and outside, the school building. Here are some actions that I feel would result in improved learning (notice I didn't say test scores!).
1) A 7 1/2 hour school day.
2) Fewer late starts, half days, early dismissals. The point being this...fewer disruptions in the school day
3) School year of at least 190 days
4) A rich and varied curriculum of a truly liberal arts variety
5) Forget teaching to various mandated tests
6) More before school and after school one on one teacher-student interaction 7) 120 minutes (2 hrs.) of teacher prep time
8) Where needed, have an adult literacy program, health care center and other family social services
9) Negotiate an end to tenure or an overhaul of tenure
10) More attention paid to Music, Art, Home Economics, Drama, Shop, and Physical Education
These are but some of my suggestions. Note that I did not call for a new set of rules for firing tenured teachers or abolishing unions. I am not advocating for tearing apart the bureacracy of the school system.
Thanks,
Dick
As I noted recently, in total, our schools aren't failing.
Do changes need to be to improve the quality of teaching and learning. Of course!! It doesn't matter where you stand on the issue of school reform, it makes common sense to always look for ways to get better.
I am thoroughly convinced that the vast majority of school personnel want to get better at helping students. I am convinced that the proposals I am suggesting would be embraced by a good number of people within, and outside, the school building. Here are some actions that I feel would result in improved learning (notice I didn't say test scores!).
1) A 7 1/2 hour school day.
2) Fewer late starts, half days, early dismissals. The point being this...fewer disruptions in the school day
3) School year of at least 190 days
4) A rich and varied curriculum of a truly liberal arts variety
5) Forget teaching to various mandated tests
6) More before school and after school one on one teacher-student interaction 7) 120 minutes (2 hrs.) of teacher prep time
8) Where needed, have an adult literacy program, health care center and other family social services
9) Negotiate an end to tenure or an overhaul of tenure
10) More attention paid to Music, Art, Home Economics, Drama, Shop, and Physical Education
These are but some of my suggestions. Note that I did not call for a new set of rules for firing tenured teachers or abolishing unions. I am not advocating for tearing apart the bureacracy of the school system.
Thanks,
Dick
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Going Green
In thinking a bit more about our particpation in District 181 'Believe in Green' Expo, 'Going Green' makes a great deal of sense for our company. There are many positives about this endeavor.
First of all, we are able to bring more supplies to the desks of children in need of the basics. Next, this effort affords schools, students at those participating schools, individuals, and businesses the opportunity to assist us. In turn, all of this work keeps useful supplies out of landfills. In total, everyone who participates in this initiative is doing their part to keep the planet from being abused.
In a sense, we have but one opportunity to maintain and preserve this planet. That is a fact. If we misuse the planet to the point of no repair, we will lose it. It may not happen in our lifetimes but the cumulative effect of polluting, littering, and generally ignoring earth will someday result in catastrophy.
We are pleased to do whatever we can to aid students and help the planet.
Dick
First of all, we are able to bring more supplies to the desks of children in need of the basics. Next, this effort affords schools, students at those participating schools, individuals, and businesses the opportunity to assist us. In turn, all of this work keeps useful supplies out of landfills. In total, everyone who participates in this initiative is doing their part to keep the planet from being abused.
In a sense, we have but one opportunity to maintain and preserve this planet. That is a fact. If we misuse the planet to the point of no repair, we will lose it. It may not happen in our lifetimes but the cumulative effect of polluting, littering, and generally ignoring earth will someday result in catastrophy.
We are pleased to do whatever we can to aid students and help the planet.
Dick
Monday, April 11, 2011
Believe in Green
The 2nd Annual 'Believe in Green' Expo was held this past Saturday at the Clarendon Hills Middle School. This was a huge success for Schools Count Corp as well as numerous other businesses, non-profits, area schools, and recycling centers.
Talk about well put together expo!! Wow!! People could drop off obsolete electronics as well as used batteries. At least six other vendors, including SCC, accepted product donations. A science fair was held during the day and demonstrations were aplenty. It truly was an environmentally friendly expo. There were treats, raffles, prizes and more. Above all, one walked away knowing that there are plenty of people out there trying to keep our planet green.
We got the word out about our mission to dozens of prospective donors. Some teachers showed an interest in collecting music instruments while others simply wanted information about how we went about serving schools. We even ended up collecting six boxes of binders, crayons, notebooks and other classroom materials!!
From my vantage point, the day was a huge success. Plenty of people support our work and are looking forward to helping as we get ready to work with the Chicago Public Schools this fall.
It was a great day!
Dick
Talk about well put together expo!! Wow!! People could drop off obsolete electronics as well as used batteries. At least six other vendors, including SCC, accepted product donations. A science fair was held during the day and demonstrations were aplenty. It truly was an environmentally friendly expo. There were treats, raffles, prizes and more. Above all, one walked away knowing that there are plenty of people out there trying to keep our planet green.
We got the word out about our mission to dozens of prospective donors. Some teachers showed an interest in collecting music instruments while others simply wanted information about how we went about serving schools. We even ended up collecting six boxes of binders, crayons, notebooks and other classroom materials!!
From my vantage point, the day was a huge success. Plenty of people support our work and are looking forward to helping as we get ready to work with the Chicago Public Schools this fall.
It was a great day!
Dick
Friday, April 8, 2011
Lockport H.S. to Aid IMN
Yesterday I received this note from the Interact and French Clubs at Lockport High School detailing a fundraiser they are holding for IMN School in Darbonne, Haiti. Looks like there are plenty of fun activities for everyone in the family!! Why not get in on the action and help two clubs who are making a real difference in the lives of the students at IMN.
I think it's truly a testament to the goodness and spirit of these clubs to continue to help their Haitian friends well over a year has passed since the devastating earthquake that killed some 300,000 Haitians. Any support you can lend these Lockport students would be greatly appreciated.
COME TO THE ALL STAR SATURDAY APRIL 9th 2011 and donate to ourHAITIAN SISTER SCHOOL Time: 4:30-7:30pm Suggested donation: $5 and school supplies How: Bring your LTHS School ID Where: Field House What: Basketball to watch and children’s games to play For: LTHS students and parents Sponsored by: Interact and LTHS French Students (Grade school students are welcome, but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian)
Many thanks, Dick
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Moving Forward
As spring unfolds and most schools are in their last quarter of the year, the work of Schools Count Corp is well underway for the fall of 2011. Our work this fall will take us back to New Orleans in addition to growing our service to Chicago Public Schools.
I want to alert everyone to the fact that I am available to come to your school, business, church, or other civic organization, during April and May, to speak on behalf of our work. Just contact me at rich219@comcast.net so that we can arrange a time for me speak to your organization.
Right now we are in the midst of talking to schools we will likely help in the fall, arranging to pick up 'gently used' supplies from area schools, speaking to groups, assessing the needs of various schools, holding fundraisers, and ordering school supplies from an area non-profit.
This is an exciting time of the year for me, personally, and for our charity. We invite you to be a part of this exciting venture this year. Fortunately, because of your generosity and kindness, many children can count on the donors and volunteers of Schools Count Corp to enable them to get a better education.
Many thanks,
Dick
I want to alert everyone to the fact that I am available to come to your school, business, church, or other civic organization, during April and May, to speak on behalf of our work. Just contact me at rich219@comcast.net so that we can arrange a time for me speak to your organization.
Right now we are in the midst of talking to schools we will likely help in the fall, arranging to pick up 'gently used' supplies from area schools, speaking to groups, assessing the needs of various schools, holding fundraisers, and ordering school supplies from an area non-profit.
This is an exciting time of the year for me, personally, and for our charity. We invite you to be a part of this exciting venture this year. Fortunately, because of your generosity and kindness, many children can count on the donors and volunteers of Schools Count Corp to enable them to get a better education.
Many thanks,
Dick
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
More on Education
Yesterday I commented on the idea that where the United States stands with regard to other countries on international testing should not be an all-out 'intellectual arms race.' I went on to state that it is far better for the American education system to find ways to improve teacher effectiveness and student learning.
For those of you with children, you can undoubtedly relate to this idea. It is my hunch you simply want your sons and daughters to do their very best, to improve as they go along in their education. I doubt very much that you are pushing them to be #1.
Let me offer another point about the whole idea for not participating in the 'race to the top.' While a country or student may be #1 it doesn't assure that country or student of anything going forward.
Will the country or student who is #1 be prepared to deal with many of life's issues? Does that country or student have a well rounded education or is it filled with a special training, though important, that leaves said country and/or student with other voids? What will the country and/or student make of that #1 status, to what use will they put their education?
Quite simply, a well rounded student and society education-wise is most important. Students and societies that make the most of their education is critical. I would argue that students and societies that grow and mature through the passage of time are more useful than making the claim that they are #1.
I think it's valuable to have a broad perspective on the merits of a comprehensive education that doesn't have a goal of being 'Number #1!!'
Thanks,
Dick
For those of you with children, you can undoubtedly relate to this idea. It is my hunch you simply want your sons and daughters to do their very best, to improve as they go along in their education. I doubt very much that you are pushing them to be #1.
Let me offer another point about the whole idea for not participating in the 'race to the top.' While a country or student may be #1 it doesn't assure that country or student of anything going forward.
Will the country or student who is #1 be prepared to deal with many of life's issues? Does that country or student have a well rounded education or is it filled with a special training, though important, that leaves said country and/or student with other voids? What will the country and/or student make of that #1 status, to what use will they put their education?
Quite simply, a well rounded student and society education-wise is most important. Students and societies that make the most of their education is critical. I would argue that students and societies that grow and mature through the passage of time are more useful than making the claim that they are #1.
I think it's valuable to have a broad perspective on the merits of a comprehensive education that doesn't have a goal of being 'Number #1!!'
Thanks,
Dick
Monday, April 4, 2011
A failure? - Not so Fast!
The respected periodical, Foreign Policy, in its March/April 2011 issue carries a thought provoking article entitled 'Think Again: Education. The central theme of the article deals with the idea that American kids aren't falling behind the Chinese, Indians, Japanese and South Koreans in terms of test scores.
Truth be known, Americans have lagged behind ever since the soviets launched Sputnik in 1957. In fact, by the early 1970's, students in the United States ranked dead last in 7 out of 19 tests administered to their counterparts in all of the industrialized countries of the world.
The point I'm making is that the current panic and perception that U.S. students don't measure up is nothing new. I would also contend that, over the past nearly 50 years, despite our low standing in test scores, America has done pretty well for itself wouldn't you agree?
What many people may find hard to believe is the fact that the performance of American students in math and science has actually improved modestly since the last round of the Program for International Student Assessment test in 2006.
I believe that we ought to heed the words of the author of the article, Ben Wildavsky of the Kauffman Foundation. He states that we should not look at scholastic achievement as 'a zero-sum competition or an intellectual arms race.' I couldn't agree with him more. Education can't be a winner take all endeavor. As long as improvement occurs in teaching and learning we need to forgo analyzing where we stand relative to other nations.
Many thanks,
Dick
Truth be known, Americans have lagged behind ever since the soviets launched Sputnik in 1957. In fact, by the early 1970's, students in the United States ranked dead last in 7 out of 19 tests administered to their counterparts in all of the industrialized countries of the world.
The point I'm making is that the current panic and perception that U.S. students don't measure up is nothing new. I would also contend that, over the past nearly 50 years, despite our low standing in test scores, America has done pretty well for itself wouldn't you agree?
What many people may find hard to believe is the fact that the performance of American students in math and science has actually improved modestly since the last round of the Program for International Student Assessment test in 2006.
I believe that we ought to heed the words of the author of the article, Ben Wildavsky of the Kauffman Foundation. He states that we should not look at scholastic achievement as 'a zero-sum competition or an intellectual arms race.' I couldn't agree with him more. Education can't be a winner take all endeavor. As long as improvement occurs in teaching and learning we need to forgo analyzing where we stand relative to other nations.
Many thanks,
Dick
Saturday, April 2, 2011
April 5th - Your Voice Needs to be Heard
Tuesday, April 5th is an important date in terms of voting. In most parts of Illinois there are all sorts of elections; county officials, local government agencies and school board elections.
Relative to our work with schools, I can think of few other ways of supporting education than by voting for school board members. We are typically prone to having to choose two, three or four members out of a slate of five, six or seven candidates. That's as it should be...contested elections.
Allow me to offer a couple of thoughts relative to choosing your next elementary and secondary school board members. I would simply like to encourage everyone to familiarize themselves with the candidates and then to cast their votes on Tuesday.
Finally, I think we will all be better served if we vote for people who don't have a 'single item agenda.' Whatever that item may be, even if it is of critical importance, does not comprise the full scope of supporting schools, teachers, and students in their entirity. Casting a vote for someone who thoughtfully looks at a broad range of issues, is overwhelmingly supportive of schools, and will avoid micromanaging the school is probably someone worth your vote.
At any rate, schools need to hear from you. They need your support.
Thanks,
Dick
Relative to our work with schools, I can think of few other ways of supporting education than by voting for school board members. We are typically prone to having to choose two, three or four members out of a slate of five, six or seven candidates. That's as it should be...contested elections.
Allow me to offer a couple of thoughts relative to choosing your next elementary and secondary school board members. I would simply like to encourage everyone to familiarize themselves with the candidates and then to cast their votes on Tuesday.
Finally, I think we will all be better served if we vote for people who don't have a 'single item agenda.' Whatever that item may be, even if it is of critical importance, does not comprise the full scope of supporting schools, teachers, and students in their entirity. Casting a vote for someone who thoughtfully looks at a broad range of issues, is overwhelmingly supportive of schools, and will avoid micromanaging the school is probably someone worth your vote.
At any rate, schools need to hear from you. They need your support.
Thanks,
Dick
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
