Another assortment of important news items and links from education blogs and web sites:
In an incredibly gutsy move, Comsewogue science teacher and PJSTA President Beth Dimino has become the first local teacher to publicly announce that she is refusing to administer the state tests this year. Will others follow? Ms. Diminio has the support of her Superintendent, Dr. Rella, How this will pan out in terms of the state’s reaction is still anyone’s guess.
Also on the refusing tests front, the Comsewogue school district is taking a stand against field testing. Again will others follow?
In a Newsday OpEd piece, Pat Med Supt. Mike Hynes looks back at the “Nation at Risk” report and how far we have strayed from the recommendations of that report (and from common sense).
A new poll shows that only 1/3 of New Yorkers support the Common Core, while just about half oppose it. And while Cuomo has roughly 50/50 approval ratings, only 18% trust his leadership on education issues.
While we’re very familiar with all the studies showing how the US is falling behind, here’s a report that puts it all in context through a much more realistic and broad look at the relevant data.
A video released by the Alliance for Quality Education, released prior to the state of the state, rips into the Governor on the issues of equity and the reform agenda.
Also on the topic of equity, while a recent post pointed out the growing gaps in the US and in New York State. a new report shows that the gap between rich and poor districts is growing especially fast on Long Island.
From the department of “wouldn’t that be nice,” the new governor of Pennsylvania selected a veteran educator as the Commissioner of Education.
Research suggests that writing about yourself “can lead to behavioral changes and improve happiness.” Take that, David Coleman
The always excellent Perdido Street School Blog reveals the truth about Cuomo’s “progressive” credentials
Feeling like a crappy teacher? You’re not alone. If nothing else it might help to understand just why so many of us feel this way.
We all too often find ourselves needing to comfort children dealing with loss. Here’s a website that offers suggestions to help these students cope with their grief.
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