Stories that Made a Splash: Our First Annual “Educated Reporter” Awards
There were many memorable education stories in 2011, but instead of a traditional “best of” list, I’d like to try something a little different. Here are a few examples of education journalism that made a difference, made me think and made me hopeful for the future of the profession:
The Ripple Effect Award (for the first pebble in the pond): The Atlanta Journal-Constitution's series of reports on widespread cheating in the public schools in which teachers were encouraged by administrators to change students’ incorrect answers on high-stakes standardized tests. The local fallout from this scandal has been substantial, including the resignation of the superintendent. But more importantly, the stories have led to more scrutiny and tougher questions in other districts. Better oversight and accountability, especially when it's coupled by responsible watchdog media, can only be a good thing for public schools.
The Water Cooler Award (for one of the most talked-about stories of the year): Paul Tough's New York Times Magazine story on the role of "grit" in learning. Tough both an incisive reporter and a fine storyteller. The story
The Ripple Effect Award (for the first pebble in the pond): The Atlanta Journal-Constitution's series of reports on widespread cheating in the public schools in which teachers were encouraged by administrators to change students’ incorrect answers on high-stakes standardized tests. The local fallout from this scandal has been substantial, including the resignation of the superintendent. But more importantly, the stories have led to more scrutiny and tougher questions in other districts. Better oversight and accountability, especially when it's coupled by responsible watchdog media, can only be a good thing for public schools.
The Water Cooler Award (for one of the most talked-about stories of the year): Paul Tough's New York Times Magazine story on the role of "grit" in learning. Tough both an incisive reporter and a fine storyteller. The story
