http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/four-decades-of-failed-school-reform/2013/09/27/dc9f2f34-2561-11e3-b75d-5b7f66349852_story.html?hpid=z3

My Comment:

The author’s words reflect my own thoughts which had been shared many times. There is a racket going on in educational consultancy. Instructional time is reduced by pulling teachers out of classrooms to attend  “staff development” meetings and sessions. Substitutes are hired! But, most of them are glorified babysitters who do not even have two year degrees. The above mentioned sessions deal with generalities which may not be applicable to particular schools. The time and money would have been better spent if the educators in the building worked together to handle their own situations instead of listening to platitudes and jargon, buzzwords and sound bytes.

The National Board Certification is another joke. Some who have the means to pay can acquire this. Even if one fails in all the four segments, one has the opportunity to pay more to attend a retreat where “experts” will help them complete the requirements successfully. Money flows in these situations.

There are some excellent teachers who have made the teaching as an art, exuding joy in learning and in imparting that joy to their students. Real learning is still possible in some classes. These educators are the unsung heroes. In many cases, neither the administrators nor the Union leaders appreciate these mavericks who dedicate their lives for education. Their goals and visions are focus far into the future instead of settling down for stop-gap measures or mere band-aids.  There are classes where there is joy.  The new scripted lessons and standardized tests do not exhibit this joy.

Arne Duncan: Universal preschool is a sure path to the middle class

It is agreed that the years before five are very important in the learning stages of a child.  In a natural process, the parents’ role at this time is crucial.  But, many children suffer from the lack of parental supervision and early intellectual and social stimulation.  We have a society that is failing our children.  The government and the educational pundits do no have the answers to our social malaise.  The preschool has its uses.  But, is that going to be enough if the home values and perceptions do not improve?  Are the parents and society willing to undertake to change themselves?

I pray that the Holy Spirit guide the Conclave to elect a Pope who is a beacon for moral rectitude and spiritual leadership.

I want to thank everyone whose heartfelt responses to my husband’s unexpected demise are expressed in so many ways.  It gladdens our hearts to know that he was and is valued by so many.  My children and I are eternally grateful for these expressions of cherished memories, praise, and gratitude.  We know the man he was and the man who is still with us.  It is heartwarming to know that the world has come to recognize both.