A couple of days ago I lamented on what I see as a 'pay to play' relationship between the UNO charter school organization, surrounding the donation of money to the Madigan campaign, and the awarding of a 2009 grant by the State of Illinois to UNO.
The Chicago Sun-Times has also revealed that UNO would like to build two new schools in Bedford Park. Problem is, Bedford Park is not currently within the city limits of Chicago. UNO has already approached Bedford Park officials concerning annexing property - property that would house the schools - into Chicago's 13th Ward.
Granted, there seems to be no illegality here. However, just why UNO would want the Bedford Park property annexed to the city raises many questions. Why build here when there are plenty of vacant lots and public schools in the city? Doesn't it seem curious that this part of Bedford Park lies within IL House Speaker Madigan's district? Are there any potential deals between UNO, Bedford Park, the city, UNO contractors, and any politicians? If so, what do they encompass.
The reason these and other questions need to be raised is because the UNO Charter organization uses public funds to build schools. That being the case, Illinois residents deserve some answers.
Dick
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Great News
Right now Chicago Public Schools have the option of offering full day kindergarten. Right now, CPS is only required to provide the minimum of a half day program. Next year CPS, with the approval of Mayor Emanuel and CEO Barbara Byrd-Bennett, will require kindergarten students to attend for the entire day.
No doubt, more teachers will need to be hired and the added expense of $15 million will trouble some. For me, this is the right move. Any time Pre-K and full day kindergarten can be added to any school district's plan is the right move!
Lengthening the school day and school year, during the current academic year, were the correct actions to take. By now having full day kindergarten, CPS is doing right by the students and their parents. I have made plenty of negative comments, over the years, regarding actions taken by CPS but, this time, it is hard to find fault.
Dick
No doubt, more teachers will need to be hired and the added expense of $15 million will trouble some. For me, this is the right move. Any time Pre-K and full day kindergarten can be added to any school district's plan is the right move!
Lengthening the school day and school year, during the current academic year, were the correct actions to take. By now having full day kindergarten, CPS is doing right by the students and their parents. I have made plenty of negative comments, over the years, regarding actions taken by CPS but, this time, it is hard to find fault.
Dick
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Are You Surprised?
Yesterday I commented on the ties between donors, connected to UNO, to the Madigan campaign and his support of aiding them with state funding. In my mind it is the game of 'pay to play' or 'its who you know."
The intrusion of firms, run for profit, into public education is wrong. Simple as that. I'm not so naive as to think that politics aren't a part of almost every facet of American capitalism. But keeping for profit companies and politics out of public education ought to be a priority.
Public education is just that. It is one of the pillars of a civil society and the means to help everyone, yes everyone, make it in our society. We need to find ways to keep it free from unnecessary and harmful intrusion by those who want to manipulate it for means other than what is best for our society.
If this sounds a bit too lofty, well, so be it. Schools, education, teachers and students must be given the tools to succeed without being encumbered with the baggage that comes from for profit firms getting their mitts on our public education.
Dick
The intrusion of firms, run for profit, into public education is wrong. Simple as that. I'm not so naive as to think that politics aren't a part of almost every facet of American capitalism. But keeping for profit companies and politics out of public education ought to be a priority.
Public education is just that. It is one of the pillars of a civil society and the means to help everyone, yes everyone, make it in our society. We need to find ways to keep it free from unnecessary and harmful intrusion by those who want to manipulate it for means other than what is best for our society.
If this sounds a bit too lofty, well, so be it. Schools, education, teachers and students must be given the tools to succeed without being encumbered with the baggage that comes from for profit firms getting their mitts on our public education.
Dick
Monday, February 25, 2013
UNO, Madigan and More
Sure, individuals and various companies can donate money to various politicians. And there is nothing wrong with politicians accepting the money and being friends with donors. A politician can even look favorably upon charter schools. All that being said, I see a problem with the relationship between UNO (a charter school firm) contractors and House Speaker Michael Madigan.
Today's Chicago Sun-Times has done some extensive investigative reporting on the closeness of these ties.
It is no secret that Madigan introduced an amendment to legislation that yielded a $98 million grant to UNO in 2009. What is troubling about this large grant is the fact that the grant was awarded 'without any requirment for competitive bidding on the work, as government agencies typically must do.'
This past October 30, 2012 UNO hosted a campaign fundraiser. More than $24,000 in donations were received that went to campaign funds controlled by Madigan. Okay, no problem, this is legal. However, after the Madigan benefit, as reported by the Sun Times, 'a bill was introduced in Springfield on Jan. 2 that would have provided another $35.2 million in state money UNO was seeking to build more charter schools.
The reason this smells is because of an age old problem with our American democracy. It is called 'pay to play' and it is repugnant.
I have said this before and I'll say it again...I don't want to see any for-profit firms (charter companies) involved in what is suppose to be true public education.
Dick
Today's Chicago Sun-Times has done some extensive investigative reporting on the closeness of these ties.
It is no secret that Madigan introduced an amendment to legislation that yielded a $98 million grant to UNO in 2009. What is troubling about this large grant is the fact that the grant was awarded 'without any requirment for competitive bidding on the work, as government agencies typically must do.'
This past October 30, 2012 UNO hosted a campaign fundraiser. More than $24,000 in donations were received that went to campaign funds controlled by Madigan. Okay, no problem, this is legal. However, after the Madigan benefit, as reported by the Sun Times, 'a bill was introduced in Springfield on Jan. 2 that would have provided another $35.2 million in state money UNO was seeking to build more charter schools.
The reason this smells is because of an age old problem with our American democracy. It is called 'pay to play' and it is repugnant.
I have said this before and I'll say it again...I don't want to see any for-profit firms (charter companies) involved in what is suppose to be true public education.
Dick
Friday, February 22, 2013
Hard to Dispute
What would you do if your children, over a period of time, had been moved from one school to another within your community, only later to have the school(s) altered and then your son and/or daughter is told that they will have to be bused to another school in a different neighborhood? As I said, what would you do? How would you feel?
Such is the case in the Bronzeville community where there have been a staggering 22 school changes over the past 10 years. All of these are due to school closings, turnarounds or consolidations. I know I wouldn't be happy to participate in such musical chairs. Actually, musical chairs is a more benign activity to say the least.
Yesterday, in light of the above constant school manipulations by the CPS, parents in Bronzeville along with members of the Kenwood Oakland Community Organization filed a Title VI civil rights complaint. The bottom line is this...they want a stable neighborhood school without the constant manipulations. In essence, they want to be treated fairly.
Like I said, it's hard to dispute!
Dick
Such is the case in the Bronzeville community where there have been a staggering 22 school changes over the past 10 years. All of these are due to school closings, turnarounds or consolidations. I know I wouldn't be happy to participate in such musical chairs. Actually, musical chairs is a more benign activity to say the least.
Yesterday, in light of the above constant school manipulations by the CPS, parents in Bronzeville along with members of the Kenwood Oakland Community Organization filed a Title VI civil rights complaint. The bottom line is this...they want a stable neighborhood school without the constant manipulations. In essence, they want to be treated fairly.
Like I said, it's hard to dispute!
Dick
Thursday, February 21, 2013
It's an Honor
There are plenty of decent, hard working citizens who care deeply about the work of Schools Count and for that I am most grateful. From donating time, to sorting supplies, to loading trucks, to generously donating your money, each of you has added significantly to the ability of our charity to help school children throughout this nation.
It is my pleasure to honor your tireless work and support by hosting our 'Appreciation Dinner.' We will get together on Tuesday, March 12th at the Hinsdale Central High School Fieldhouse to share in the many successes over the past year. Let me extend an invitation to you, members of your family and colleagues to join us.
Not only will you meet caring people, like yourself, but you will have an opportunity to meet many of the principals of the CPS schools served by Schools Count. This will be the first time that the recipients of your generosity have attended the dinner. I know they are eager to meet you and thank you for your acts of kindness. Not only will you have a chance to meet these dedicated professionals but the evening will also offer you the opportunity to hear from Mary Mitchell, the award-winning Chicago Sun Times columnist.
To be a part of this wonderful evening simply email (at rich219@comcast.net) me the names of those attending. The doors will open at 6:00 with the program and dinner, yes a free and delicious meal, to follow at 6:30. I look forward to seeing you!
Dick
It is my pleasure to honor your tireless work and support by hosting our 'Appreciation Dinner.' We will get together on Tuesday, March 12th at the Hinsdale Central High School Fieldhouse to share in the many successes over the past year. Let me extend an invitation to you, members of your family and colleagues to join us.
Not only will you meet caring people, like yourself, but you will have an opportunity to meet many of the principals of the CPS schools served by Schools Count. This will be the first time that the recipients of your generosity have attended the dinner. I know they are eager to meet you and thank you for your acts of kindness. Not only will you have a chance to meet these dedicated professionals but the evening will also offer you the opportunity to hear from Mary Mitchell, the award-winning Chicago Sun Times columnist.
To be a part of this wonderful evening simply email (at rich219@comcast.net) me the names of those attending. The doors will open at 6:00 with the program and dinner, yes a free and delicious meal, to follow at 6:30. I look forward to seeing you!
Dick
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
You Can Help
Today is the last chance you can buy delicious organic fruits and vegetables while supporting Student Assisting Students and our charity. Support healthier eating by buying an assortment of organic fruits and vegetables for less than retail prices! This new fundraiser is a joint venture between HCHS and the PTO and with your support we will help raise money for participating Red Devils' Clubs and the PTO's philanthropic endeavors. Let me know, today, if you want me to place an order and I will do so. You can pay me later. Simply email me at rich219@comcast.net and I'll be glad to process the order!
Order online at http://www.hinsdalecentralpto.org and pay through PayPal, or drop off this form and check (made payable to HCHS PTO) at the Hinsdale Central Book Store or mail the form and check to Hinsdale Central High School, 55th and Grant Streets, Hinsdale, IL 60521, Attn: Bookstore – Organic Food Fundraiser. Then drive by and pick up your organic food box in front of the Auditorium between 10 - 11 a.m. on designated pick-up day(s).
You can pre-order on one form for any/all of the dates, or order online by the deadline each time.
Name (Last, First): ___________________________________
Phone: (required):____________________________________
Email: (required): ____________________________________
Small boxes min. 10 lbs. Large boxes min. 20 lbs. See www.therecessionbuster.com for contents and recipes each week. Every delivery date benefits a different club or organization and the PTO. Please check appropriate box(es):
Students Assisting Students and Family, Careers, and Community Leaders of America and the PTO: Saturday 2/23 pickup 10 - 11am /Order Deadline: Thursday 2/21 by 2:00pm @ Bookstore or online
Small Vegetable Box $22
Large Vegetable Box $44
Small Combo Box $23
Large Combo Box $45
Small Fruit Box $24
Large Fruit Box $46
TOTAL OF ORDER: __________________ Checks made payable to HCHS PTO
Questions? Contact us at organic@hinsdalecentralpto.org or vicky@bushjoseph.com.
Order online at http://www.hinsdalecentralpto.org and pay through PayPal, or drop off this form and check (made payable to HCHS PTO) at the Hinsdale Central Book Store or mail the form and check to Hinsdale Central High School, 55th and Grant Streets, Hinsdale, IL 60521, Attn: Bookstore – Organic Food Fundraiser. Then drive by and pick up your organic food box in front of the Auditorium between 10 - 11 a.m. on designated pick-up day(s).
You can pre-order on one form for any/all of the dates, or order online by the deadline each time.
Name (Last, First): ___________________________________
Phone: (required):____________________________________
Email: (required): ____________________________________
Small boxes min. 10 lbs. Large boxes min. 20 lbs. See www.therecessionbuster.com for contents and recipes each week. Every delivery date benefits a different club or organization and the PTO. Please check appropriate box(es):
Students Assisting Students and Family, Careers, and Community Leaders of America and the PTO: Saturday 2/23 pickup 10 - 11am /Order Deadline: Thursday 2/21 by 2:00pm @ Bookstore or online
Small Vegetable Box $22
Large Vegetable Box $44
Small Combo Box $23
Large Combo Box $45
Small Fruit Box $24
Large Fruit Box $46
TOTAL OF ORDER: __________________ Checks made payable to HCHS PTO
Questions? Contact us at organic@hinsdalecentralpto.org or vicky@bushjoseph.com.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
City Schools and Gun Violence
A nationwide conversation has ensued about guns, gun violence, the senseless death of far too many school children and potential legislation dealing with these issues. Let me be clear; I am not a gun owner, I'm not interested in politicizing any issues related to guns, the ownership of them or doing harm to the Second Amendment. I want to weigh in on one major point.
Too many school children are dying because of gun violence. From Newtown to the four deaths of CPS students in the past two weeks, too many children are meeting a senseless and needless end to their lives. On this point, everyone should be able to agree and, if not, then we aren't as civilized as one would hope.
Let me pose one follow up question to this onslaught of assaults on our nation's youth. Shouldn't we work to find a way to get guns off the streets of Chicago or any other street where our nation's young attend classes? If the answer is yes then we need to press the police, citizens, schools, civic organization, religious groups, and legislators to get to work to remove these deadly weapons from killing any more of our school children.
It's been said before...enough is enough.
Dick
Too many school children are dying because of gun violence. From Newtown to the four deaths of CPS students in the past two weeks, too many children are meeting a senseless and needless end to their lives. On this point, everyone should be able to agree and, if not, then we aren't as civilized as one would hope.
Let me pose one follow up question to this onslaught of assaults on our nation's youth. Shouldn't we work to find a way to get guns off the streets of Chicago or any other street where our nation's young attend classes? If the answer is yes then we need to press the police, citizens, schools, civic organization, religious groups, and legislators to get to work to remove these deadly weapons from killing any more of our school children.
It's been said before...enough is enough.
Dick
Friday, February 15, 2013
Just Another Thought
As I mentioned yesterday, CPS has an initial school closing list of 129, most of them on the west and south side of the city. Aside from looking at test scores, empty parts of the respective buildings and so forth one other feature needs to be thought of when it comes to the actual shuttering of schools.
Many of those on the chopping block are in some of the poorest parts of the city. Too often, unemployment, blight, crime, gangs and more prolifierate in portions of these neighborhoods. For far too long many of the areas have suffered from a lack of resources.
Thought about in another way, if an area is in a state of decline, however one wants to define it, doesn't it make sense to do something to build it up, to enhance it? Taking a school away from a community that already has enough difficulties is simply another way to continue the downward slide of said community. I guarantee that is exactly what will happen. Rob a community of one of its real assets and you will do real harm.
Areas where schools are about to be closed need assistance. Until this happens, people will continue to suffer a continuation of the same problems they now confront on a daily basis.
Dick
Many of those on the chopping block are in some of the poorest parts of the city. Too often, unemployment, blight, crime, gangs and more prolifierate in portions of these neighborhoods. For far too long many of the areas have suffered from a lack of resources.
Thought about in another way, if an area is in a state of decline, however one wants to define it, doesn't it make sense to do something to build it up, to enhance it? Taking a school away from a community that already has enough difficulties is simply another way to continue the downward slide of said community. I guarantee that is exactly what will happen. Rob a community of one of its real assets and you will do real harm.
Areas where schools are about to be closed need assistance. Until this happens, people will continue to suffer a continuation of the same problems they now confront on a daily basis.
Dick
Thursday, February 14, 2013
CPS School Closings
Late Wednesday the CPS brass unveiled the list of those schools who might face closure this coming spring. The list was long!!! 129 schools are on the chopping block. The list will be parred down with a final determination being made by March 31st.
Particularly hard hit, as expected were schools on the west and southside. These are some of the areas where there are many empty seats within the school buildings. They also happen to be in some of the neighborhoods where poverty and unemployment abounds.
Among the schools that are targeted for closing are some of the schools that our charity works with each year. Here's a list of the schools we work with that are in the mix in terms of being closed; Chalmers, Pope, King, Dumas, Fuller, Banneker, Holmes, Lafayette, Von Humboldt, Songhai, West Pullman, Parkman, Bethune and Jenner.
When this news came out last night, it was rather hard to fathom the fact that some of these schools will be shuttered next year. I thought of displaced kids, great teachers losing their jobs, neighborhoods robbed of a community pillar and the further erosion of community through the loss of their school.
Until the axe falls, SCC will continue to help the students, aid the teachers and assist families to the best of our ability.
Dick
Particularly hard hit, as expected were schools on the west and southside. These are some of the areas where there are many empty seats within the school buildings. They also happen to be in some of the neighborhoods where poverty and unemployment abounds.
Among the schools that are targeted for closing are some of the schools that our charity works with each year. Here's a list of the schools we work with that are in the mix in terms of being closed; Chalmers, Pope, King, Dumas, Fuller, Banneker, Holmes, Lafayette, Von Humboldt, Songhai, West Pullman, Parkman, Bethune and Jenner.
When this news came out last night, it was rather hard to fathom the fact that some of these schools will be shuttered next year. I thought of displaced kids, great teachers losing their jobs, neighborhoods robbed of a community pillar and the further erosion of community through the loss of their school.
Until the axe falls, SCC will continue to help the students, aid the teachers and assist families to the best of our ability.
Dick
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Appreciation Dinner - March 12th
The gifts of giving continue to astound and inspire. Your efforts have made it possible to serve children, over recent years, from the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic Ocean and from the north side of Chicago to the southern suburbs. Donations, hours spent volunteering and encouragement have enabled children and teachers to be supplied with resources that allow for their success in the classroom.
The Schools Count Corp Board of Directors is extending an invitation to attend the Tuesday, March 12th 'Appreciation Dinner.' This will be a very special occasion as Mary Mitchell of the Chicago Sun-Times will be speaking on a whole host of hot button education issues. This award-winning columnist is sure to spark our interest as she attended CPS schools and has written extensively on education within the city of Chicago.
Appreciation Dinner, Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Hinsdale Central High School student cafe
Doors open at 6:00 pm, Dinner and Program commence at 6:30 pm
Mary Mitchell of the Chicago Sun-Times
(email names of those attending to Dick Flesher at rich219@comcast.net
You and your family are invited. Please respond asap but no than March 1st)
Not only will it be a grand occasion for the above reasons but it will be a time to celebrate many accomplishments, meet some terrific people and to come face to face with those we are privileged to work with in and around Chicago. I look forward to seeing you and sharing with you the ongoing work of Schools Count Corp. It's because of you that we are able to forge ahead! Thank you so very much.
Sincerely,
Dick Flesher
Richard Flesher
Schools Count Corp., NFP
20048 S. Kohlwood
Mokena, IL. 60448
phone: 630-863-6035
website: www.schoolscountcorp.org
blog: http://schoolscountcorp.blogspot.com
Like us at www.facebook.com/SchoolsCountCorp
The Schools Count Corp Board of Directors is extending an invitation to attend the Tuesday, March 12th 'Appreciation Dinner.' This will be a very special occasion as Mary Mitchell of the Chicago Sun-Times will be speaking on a whole host of hot button education issues. This award-winning columnist is sure to spark our interest as she attended CPS schools and has written extensively on education within the city of Chicago.
Appreciation Dinner, Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Hinsdale Central High School student cafe
Doors open at 6:00 pm, Dinner and Program commence at 6:30 pm
Mary Mitchell of the Chicago Sun-Times
(email names of those attending to Dick Flesher at rich219@comcast.net
You and your family are invited. Please respond asap but no than March 1st)
Not only will it be a grand occasion for the above reasons but it will be a time to celebrate many accomplishments, meet some terrific people and to come face to face with those we are privileged to work with in and around Chicago. I look forward to seeing you and sharing with you the ongoing work of Schools Count Corp. It's because of you that we are able to forge ahead! Thank you so very much.
Sincerely,
Dick Flesher
Richard Flesher
Schools Count Corp., NFP
20048 S. Kohlwood
Mokena, IL. 60448
phone: 630-863-6035
website: www.schoolscountcorp.org
blog: http://schoolscountcorp.blogspot.com
Like us at www.facebook.com/SchoolsCountCorp
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Tasty Treats!!
Looking for some good, fresh fruits or vegetables? Look no further!!! The Students Assisting Students Club, along with the Family, Careers and Community Leaders of America, at Hinsdale Central High School are raising funds to help many of the students our charity serves in the Chicagoland region. The clubs earn 75% of the proceeds!!
You can buy the following; a small box or vegetables for $22, a small box of fruits & vegetables for $23, a small box of fruit for $24, a large box of vegetables for $44, a large box of fruits & vegetables for $45 or a large box of fruit for $46. A small box weighs at least 10 lbs., a large one weighs at least 20 lbs.
To place your order simply contact me at rich219@comcast.net. Your order has to be placed no later than Thursday, February 21st by 2:00 pm. You will pick up your order at Hinsdale Central High School on Saturday, February 23 between 10:00 and 11:00 am. Checks are to be made payable to HCHS PTO.
All of the produce is organic so the price is right!! Why not eat healthy and help a couple of clubs work to help people who could use a hand!!
Many thanks!
Dick
You can buy the following; a small box or vegetables for $22, a small box of fruits & vegetables for $23, a small box of fruit for $24, a large box of vegetables for $44, a large box of fruits & vegetables for $45 or a large box of fruit for $46. A small box weighs at least 10 lbs., a large one weighs at least 20 lbs.
To place your order simply contact me at rich219@comcast.net. Your order has to be placed no later than Thursday, February 21st by 2:00 pm. You will pick up your order at Hinsdale Central High School on Saturday, February 23 between 10:00 and 11:00 am. Checks are to be made payable to HCHS PTO.
All of the produce is organic so the price is right!! Why not eat healthy and help a couple of clubs work to help people who could use a hand!!
Many thanks!
Dick
Monday, February 11, 2013
And the Verdict Is...
This two-week series has focused on a variety of contemporary educational issues which necessitate the collective action(s) of informed teacher input. Can you imagine not involving staff when decisions are rendered concerning Educational Services, tenure, class size, teacher evaluations, standardized testing, merit/effectiveness and more? Well, not really!
For those who see teacher unions/associations as impediments to dealing with today's classroom and attending issues, it is worth noting that teacher unions almost always work cooperatively with school officials to resolve conflicts and move forward. It is the nature of how they work with our children in dozens of ways on an everyday basis. The perception that unions are the problem is not born of fact.
Put another way, if one were to take unions out of the equation in terms of dealing with the issues noted in the first paragraph there is no way of telling what decisions would have been made in such a void. One thing is for sure, we would not have achieved the same progress now enjoyed in so many of our schools.
Dick
For those who see teacher unions/associations as impediments to dealing with today's classroom and attending issues, it is worth noting that teacher unions almost always work cooperatively with school officials to resolve conflicts and move forward. It is the nature of how they work with our children in dozens of ways on an everyday basis. The perception that unions are the problem is not born of fact.
Put another way, if one were to take unions out of the equation in terms of dealing with the issues noted in the first paragraph there is no way of telling what decisions would have been made in such a void. One thing is for sure, we would not have achieved the same progress now enjoyed in so many of our schools.
Dick
Saturday, February 9, 2013
Standardized...WHY?
Okay, big deal, so a test can be given that measures everyone against the same standards. Sure, you can use this tool as a means of seeing if one has met a certain measure or got to a certain level of learning. Yep, you can use such a device as a method of determining if someone moves forward into another grade level or into college.
Sounds good, right? Not so fast.
First of all, the whole of object of learning is to get interested and inspired about learning for the sake of learning and making themselves better to be a citizen in our society. This isn't the only reason for the existence of education but it is a primary one and no standardized test that I know of measures this.
As I mentioned standardized tests measure certain levels of achievement in content. Do you think any of them assess ones level of understanding in mastering the arts, cooking, performance dance, woodworking and other hands-on activities? No chance. That's a pretty significant shortcoming.
By the way, I realize assessments are given in terms of grade promotion or as a means of one entering college. However, given the fact, as I just mentioned, that some areas are not part of the standardized test then the measure is not appropriate for a number of students.
By the way, who sets the standard about what is considered 'progress,' 'achievement,' and/or 'success' on the test? A for-profit company or a goverment agency? I think people need to allow those who work with our children the opportunity to assess such outcomes.
Dick
Sounds good, right? Not so fast.
First of all, the whole of object of learning is to get interested and inspired about learning for the sake of learning and making themselves better to be a citizen in our society. This isn't the only reason for the existence of education but it is a primary one and no standardized test that I know of measures this.
As I mentioned standardized tests measure certain levels of achievement in content. Do you think any of them assess ones level of understanding in mastering the arts, cooking, performance dance, woodworking and other hands-on activities? No chance. That's a pretty significant shortcoming.
By the way, I realize assessments are given in terms of grade promotion or as a means of one entering college. However, given the fact, as I just mentioned, that some areas are not part of the standardized test then the measure is not appropriate for a number of students.
By the way, who sets the standard about what is considered 'progress,' 'achievement,' and/or 'success' on the test? A for-profit company or a goverment agency? I think people need to allow those who work with our children the opportunity to assess such outcomes.
Dick
Friday, February 8, 2013
Some Candor
Class size, teaching multiple lessons within a single class and grade, attending to the individual needs of students, making adaptations, and designing an assortment of assessment tools are all part of a typical lesson or teaching a particular grade level. Addressing autism, 504 plans, various educational service student issues, inclusion and the like demands that teachers be an integral part of the discussion.
It didn't use to be this way! In the past, one pretty much walked into a class and conducted essentially 'a stand and deliver' and that was it. The students either got it or they didn't.
But the adjustments I alluded to at the beginning of today's blog are the ones every teacher has to make in 2013. These adjustments require time, planning, and a great deal of thought. It also requires a terrific ability, on the part of the teacher, to be flexible. The demands are great.
At the outset of this 10-day series, I mentioned that local, state and federal teacher organizations (unions and associations) are taking a role in addressing these issues. Without teacher input, feedback and knowledge these issues would not be dealt with effectively.
It is much more practical for critical issues such as the above to be examined by and addressed through a consolidated and thoughtful process. Teacher unions and other like-minded associations are adept at assisting in this work.
How many people,who bash unions, realize the good that these groups do on such issues?
Dick
It didn't use to be this way! In the past, one pretty much walked into a class and conducted essentially 'a stand and deliver' and that was it. The students either got it or they didn't.
But the adjustments I alluded to at the beginning of today's blog are the ones every teacher has to make in 2013. These adjustments require time, planning, and a great deal of thought. It also requires a terrific ability, on the part of the teacher, to be flexible. The demands are great.
At the outset of this 10-day series, I mentioned that local, state and federal teacher organizations (unions and associations) are taking a role in addressing these issues. Without teacher input, feedback and knowledge these issues would not be dealt with effectively.
It is much more practical for critical issues such as the above to be examined by and addressed through a consolidated and thoughtful process. Teacher unions and other like-minded associations are adept at assisting in this work.
How many people,who bash unions, realize the good that these groups do on such issues?
Dick
Thursday, February 7, 2013
Measuring Merit
Real teacher effectiveness includes a good number of important traits beyond the prescribed tying of student standardized test results demanded by many state and school districts. That's an issue I blogged about yesterday and might be worth your checking out. If you want to judge the quality of the teacher, better tools are out there.
To look at how a teacher inspires, determining what is taught and learned, judging ones ability to motivate, seeking to uncover the extent to which a teacher is able to help a student grow, and opening up the minds of students to new opportunities and different perspectives is a complex one.
Three or four different methods of examining the effectivenss of a teacher need to be part of the total picture. Self reflection and assessment is certainly part of the answer. I also believe there is a real need to have extensive student feedback regarding teacher quality. Students will be pretty up front on this.
Having peers evaluate you won't hurt a thing. Why not have a second grade teacher help assess the performance of his/her colleague? Works for me. And, of course, there is an important role to be played in the process by the building administration.
One warning, given the above, please don't use some local or state govt. form of evaluation on the above qualities. Schools and school districts, along with the evaluators are smart enough to know a good assessment instrument.
Dick
To look at how a teacher inspires, determining what is taught and learned, judging ones ability to motivate, seeking to uncover the extent to which a teacher is able to help a student grow, and opening up the minds of students to new opportunities and different perspectives is a complex one.
Three or four different methods of examining the effectivenss of a teacher need to be part of the total picture. Self reflection and assessment is certainly part of the answer. I also believe there is a real need to have extensive student feedback regarding teacher quality. Students will be pretty up front on this.
Having peers evaluate you won't hurt a thing. Why not have a second grade teacher help assess the performance of his/her colleague? Works for me. And, of course, there is an important role to be played in the process by the building administration.
One warning, given the above, please don't use some local or state govt. form of evaluation on the above qualities. Schools and school districts, along with the evaluators are smart enough to know a good assessment instrument.
Dick
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Real Teacher Merit
Now that I have tried to agitate that teacher merit or, better said, effectivness is not measured in any meaningful way by student standardized test score results, let me explain what real teacher effectiveness looks like in the classroom.
A great teacher inspires and encourages, always finding ways to open up the minds of students to the great potential that resides in them. The best teachers do that...they poke, prod, and inspire. They provide real opportunities for development. No testwill ever measure such a critical and necessary quality.
Those teachers who care as deeply about the well-being of their students as they do their content were, and are, worth more than any test of any sort. Show me a decent, caring, fair, honest and humane instructor and I'll wager a bet your child will prosper. Do you really think a test can, in and of itself, do this?
Those teachers who broaden horizons and expose our children to what is within their grasp as well as those possibilities outside of their previous experiences are worth their weight in gold. I want to see a teacher who can instruct about U. S. History from various vantage points; cultural differences, social norms, traditions and how we are viewed by other societies. That is, they 'tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth.'
It is all of the above qualities that have much more to do with teacher merit/effectiveness than the results of a standardized test.
Dick
A great teacher inspires and encourages, always finding ways to open up the minds of students to the great potential that resides in them. The best teachers do that...they poke, prod, and inspire. They provide real opportunities for development. No testwill ever measure such a critical and necessary quality.
Those teachers who care as deeply about the well-being of their students as they do their content were, and are, worth more than any test of any sort. Show me a decent, caring, fair, honest and humane instructor and I'll wager a bet your child will prosper. Do you really think a test can, in and of itself, do this?
Those teachers who broaden horizons and expose our children to what is within their grasp as well as those possibilities outside of their previous experiences are worth their weight in gold. I want to see a teacher who can instruct about U. S. History from various vantage points; cultural differences, social norms, traditions and how we are viewed by other societies. That is, they 'tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth.'
It is all of the above qualities that have much more to do with teacher merit/effectiveness than the results of a standardized test.
Dick
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
More on Merit
Yesterday I made clear that equating meritorious teaching with student standardized tests scores is complete nonsense. Let me state in it plain language, great teaching involves much, much more than how someone performs on a standardized exam.
How on earth does a standardized test reflect the progress a student makes in a few months or a portion of the year? It doesn't and the test isn't constructed to measure progress or improvement. And let's say that a student entering fifth grade is reading at a second grade level. Does anyone really think it is feasible for that student to read at a fifth grade level by the time a test is given in March (only three-forths of the way through the school year). Hardly!
The fact that people believe that standardized scores are the 'be all' is simply amazing. Some people have really sold us a bill of goods. Aside from the fact that the test results don't really indicate improvement there are other serious shortcomings.
I believe we want our teachers to unlock a student's creativity. I'm pretty sure standardized testing won't measure this. Likewise, I hope that teachers inspire students and push them to give their best. Again, the standardized test is designed to measure this critical factor.
Teacher merit (effectiveness) is a rather complicated and multi-faceted trait and shouldn't be viewed through the lens of how students perform on standardized tests.
Dick
How on earth does a standardized test reflect the progress a student makes in a few months or a portion of the year? It doesn't and the test isn't constructed to measure progress or improvement. And let's say that a student entering fifth grade is reading at a second grade level. Does anyone really think it is feasible for that student to read at a fifth grade level by the time a test is given in March (only three-forths of the way through the school year). Hardly!
The fact that people believe that standardized scores are the 'be all' is simply amazing. Some people have really sold us a bill of goods. Aside from the fact that the test results don't really indicate improvement there are other serious shortcomings.
I believe we want our teachers to unlock a student's creativity. I'm pretty sure standardized testing won't measure this. Likewise, I hope that teachers inspire students and push them to give their best. Again, the standardized test is designed to measure this critical factor.
Teacher merit (effectiveness) is a rather complicated and multi-faceted trait and shouldn't be viewed through the lens of how students perform on standardized tests.
Dick
Monday, February 4, 2013
Teacher Merit and Merit Pay
Teacher merit, just what do many so called school reformers mean by it but, more importantly, what is the true essence of teacher merit within the 'real' world of teaching and learning? One may think the definition is one and the same but they aren't.
Many of those in the 'reform' movement see teacher merit as being almost totally tied to standardized test scores. There might also be a measure of teacher evaluations mixed in but, for the most part, reformers see teacher merit as being directly linked to testing.
This is a sad, sad scenario for a number of reason. First, a primary motive of tying test scores to teacher merit is because those who believe in this believe that it is a efficient system. What better way to determine teacher effectiveness, that is merit, than to use student scores on a standardized exam (that is one not based on content in the actual course). Of course this completely misses the whole point about the worth of a teacher and the various compenent parts of what leads to student learning.
Finally, and just as sadly, those who strongly advocate for teacher merit being tied to standardized test scores often go a step further and declare that a teachers pay should be tied to the test scores. Again, this largely misses the boat on what is effective teaching and how one should be compensated.
I'll have more to say on this tomorrow.
Dick'
Many of those in the 'reform' movement see teacher merit as being almost totally tied to standardized test scores. There might also be a measure of teacher evaluations mixed in but, for the most part, reformers see teacher merit as being directly linked to testing.
This is a sad, sad scenario for a number of reason. First, a primary motive of tying test scores to teacher merit is because those who believe in this believe that it is a efficient system. What better way to determine teacher effectiveness, that is merit, than to use student scores on a standardized exam (that is one not based on content in the actual course). Of course this completely misses the whole point about the worth of a teacher and the various compenent parts of what leads to student learning.
Finally, and just as sadly, those who strongly advocate for teacher merit being tied to standardized test scores often go a step further and declare that a teachers pay should be tied to the test scores. Again, this largely misses the boat on what is effective teaching and how one should be compensated.
I'll have more to say on this tomorrow.
Dick'
Friday, February 1, 2013
To Close or Not to Close!
You're right if you think tousands of students and parents are concerned about the possibility that the CPS brass will close their respective schools this coming fall. Nearly 1000 people, yes, 1000!, made their voices heard (or were they heard?) at last night's last public hearing on the issue.
Some of the citizens in attendance at the event are from schools served by our charity. Among those present were representatives from Chalmer Elementary and Pope Elementary, both located in the North Lawndale neighborhood.
One strong expression of the need to leave so called 'underutilized' schools open was reflected by an expression on a t-shirt worn by Anthony Patton. It stated, "Penn is more than square footage, it is our home." No one should doubt the truth in this statement.
That is a critical piece of information too often ignored by those pushing hard for multiple school closings. The neighborhood school is often the pillar of the community. Some parts of some schools are used for alternative schools. Still other schools are a resource for after-school programs such as AmericaScores. I've been a witness to CPS schools which are open on Saturdays. Often children attend recreational and educational programs. Likewise, parents in some communities attend literacy and health seminars on the weekend.
My point is this...be careful about shutting the school doors, you might well be harming an entire community.
Dick
Some of the citizens in attendance at the event are from schools served by our charity. Among those present were representatives from Chalmer Elementary and Pope Elementary, both located in the North Lawndale neighborhood.
One strong expression of the need to leave so called 'underutilized' schools open was reflected by an expression on a t-shirt worn by Anthony Patton. It stated, "Penn is more than square footage, it is our home." No one should doubt the truth in this statement.
That is a critical piece of information too often ignored by those pushing hard for multiple school closings. The neighborhood school is often the pillar of the community. Some parts of some schools are used for alternative schools. Still other schools are a resource for after-school programs such as AmericaScores. I've been a witness to CPS schools which are open on Saturdays. Often children attend recreational and educational programs. Likewise, parents in some communities attend literacy and health seminars on the weekend.
My point is this...be careful about shutting the school doors, you might well be harming an entire community.
Dick
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