Big Education Ape 2nd Banana
Recap of Last Week's Best Post
CTA's recommendations for the June 5 primary - California Teachers Association
CTA's recommendations for the June 5 primary - California Teachers Association: CTA's recommendations for the June 5 primary [image: image] CTA’s recommendations for the June 5 primary election Now more than ever, support and VOTE for CTA’s recommended candidates. Remember — your vote makes a difference. In California’s “open primary” system, the top two vote-getters, regardless of political party, will move on to the November general election. Now more than ever we must elect lawmakers who will fund public schools and support teachers. Know that when you cast your vote for CTA-rec... more »
DC Public Schools to replace 18 of Failed DC Chancellor Michelle Rhee's principals | Washington Examiner
DC Public Schools to replace 18 principals | Washington Examiner: DC Public Schools to replace 18 principals The District is quietly replacing 18 of its public school principals, most of whom were hired by former Chancellor Michelle Rhee to turn around the schools. DC Public Schools spokeswoman Melissa Salmanowitz declined to say how many of the 18 principals were retiring, resigning or being fired. But parents told The Washington Examiner that several principals, including Rhee appointees at Garrison Elementary School and Shaw Middle School at Garnet-Patterson, were terminated. Sha... more »
University of Minnesota Scientist Drops Bombshell About Walker: Says He Fathered Child at Marquette | Uppity Wisconsin
Yesterday, the University of Minnesota's Dr. Bernadette Gillick was best known as a nationally recognized scientist for her research into how the brain recovers from injuries.
After today, she will likely be forever known for coming forward and telling the world that Scott Walker fathered a child and refused to take responsability for it while at Marquette:
Bernadette Gillick was a college freshman in 1988 when she first met Scott
Failed DC Chancellor Michelle Rhee's Reality: Charter School Job Insecurity Leads to Tragedy | Crooks and Liars
Michelle Rhee's Reality: Charter School Job Insecurity Leads to Tragedy | Crooks and Liars: Michelle Rhee's Reality: Charter School Job Insecurity Leads to Tragedy 58 comments By karoli ENLARGE [image: 7307492124_091f917608_n.jpg] Credit: mitco Michelle Rhee loves charter schools. She hates teacher unions. She thinks teachers shouldn't have pensions, only 401k plans. She really, really loathes teacher tenure and is doing her very best to make sure teachers get no respect, have no long term career plans, and that they're divided on a generational basis. She's funded by lots of right... more »
Press Briefing by Press Secretary Jay Carney, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, and Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Richard Cordray, 6/5/12 | The White House
Press Briefing by Press Secretary Jay Carney, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, and Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Richard Cordray, 6/5/12 | The White House: Press Briefing by Press Secretary Jay Carney, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, and Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Richard Cordray, 6/5/12 by The White House James S. Brady Press Briefing Room 2:35 P.M. EDT MR. CARNEY: We apologize for the delay, but we are glad that you’re here and welcome you as ever to the briefing room for your daily briefing. As I think was advertised, I ha... more »
Shop Til You Drop - Failed DC Chancellor Michelle Rhee's June Shopping Spree #SOSCHAT #EDCHAT #P2
*Shop Til You Drop * *Failed DC Chancellor Michelle Rhee's * *June Shopping Spree* *What did Failed DC Chancellor Michelle Rhee's Corporate Millions buy? * *Our Public Schools. * *She plans to spend even more in November. * *Don't let Corporate Reformers Buy * * * *Our Public Schools!* * * * * * * * Beware of AstroTurf Ed Reformers * * * *Just Like Michelle Rhee's Students first only BETTER* * * *Astroturf lobbying refers to political organizations or campaigns that appear to be made up of grassroots activists but are actually organized and run by corporate interests seeking to furthe... more »
NYC Public School Parents: video of Pearson protest today!
NYC Public School Parents: video of Pearson protest today!: video of Pearson protest today! by Leonie Haimson *Go to Parents Across America.* *Lindsey Christ of NY1 did a great story on today's protest at Pearson, the largest education conglomerate in the world and the author of our sadly flawed state tests. Please also see my post in NYT/Schoolbook on theLessons of Pineapplegate. -- Leonie Haimson* Popout
*Parents in 59 Schools Boycott Field Tests for High-Stakes Exams:* *Fed Up With Over-Testing, Parents Protest at Pearson Headquarters for Child Abuse- Parents say less testing moer teaching | Dailycensored.com
*Parents in 59 Schools Boycott Field Tests for High-Stakes Exams:* *Fed Up With Over-Testing, Parents Protest at Pearson Headquarters for Child Abuse- Parents say less testing moer teaching | Dailycensored.com: *Parents in 59 Schools Boycott Field Tests for High-Stakes Exams:* *Fed Up With Over-Testing, Parents Protest at Pearson Headquarters for Child Abuse- Parents say less testing moer teaching by Danny Weil The British corporate child abusers, Pearson Inc., are intent on turning schools into laboratories and labyrynths for testing kids. Stealing childhood is nothing to these... more »
California primaries show Democratic divide on education | Reuters
California primaries show Democratic divide on education | Reuters: *California primaries show Democratic divide on education* [image: DFER Fake Democrats for Education Privatization (click on Picture)] IT IS A RULE: YOU CAN'T BE AGAINST PEOPLE AND FOR CORPORATIONS AND CALL YOURSELF A DEMOCRAT...EVER! (Reuters) - Democratic candidates backed by teachers unions narrowly lost on Tuesday in two California state assembly primary races that highlighted a bitter split in the Democratic Party over education policy. The most contentious race was in Assembly District 46, a heavily Democr... more »
The Washington Teacher: The Cardozo Experiment: DC Public School Gets Race To The Top Funds
The Washington Teacher: The Cardozo Experiment: DC Public School Gets Race To The Top Funds: The Cardozo Experiment: DC Public School Gets Race To The Top Funds by Candi Peterson Written by Candi Peterson So it seems that DC Public Schools will be using Race to The Top (RTTT) Dollars to create more school administrators and educrats which according to the *Urban Dictionary* is an officer, administrator or other bureaucrats in a school district. Similar stories are taking shape around the country as districts race to the top for funds under President Obama's signature 2009 reform ... more »
Seattle Schools Community Forum: Why is the Alliance for Education promoting Charters?
Seattle Schools Community Forum: Why is the Alliance for Education promoting Charters?: Why is the Alliance for Education promoting Charters? by Charlie Mas Here are some recent tweets from the Alliance for Education: *Dave Murray* @*ReporterDMurray* "Parent trigger" bill narrowly clears Michigan senate by a 20-18 vote. Parents can petition for charter conversion, turnaround plan. **Retweeted by *Alliance 4 Education* *Educators4Excellence* @*Ed4Excellence* Instead of pitting schools against each other, we should learn from great ones, district or charter. Peter Cipparone: htt... more »
Missouri Education Watchdog: Common Core = Educational Equity, NOT Educational Excellence.
Missouri Education Watchdog: Common Core = Educational Equity, NOT Educational Excellence.: Common Core = Educational Equity, NOT Educational Excellence. by stlgretchen ...two words NOT allowed in Common Core standards. "Uncommon" & "Creative" Jamie Gass from Pioneer Institute writes about current DOEd education reform and common core standards in an article entitled "Leaves of Memory Going Dark": *Gov. Patrick, Secretary Reville, and other state officials must realize the damage the national standards are doing to the high school English curriculum and require yearlong courses in... more »
Audits for 3 Georgia Charter Schools Tied to Gulen Movement - NYTimes.com
Audits for 3 Georgia Charter Schools Tied to Gulen Movement - NYTimes.com: Audits for 3 Georgia Schools Tied to Turkish MovementBy STEPHANIE SAUL A group of three publicly financed charter schools in Georgia run by followers of Fethullah Gulen, a prominent Turkish imam, have come under scrutiny after they defaulted on bonds and an audit found that the schools improperly granted hundreds of thousands of dollars in contracts to businesses and groups, many of them with ties to the Gulen movement. The audit released Tuesday by the Fulton County Schools near Atlanta found the schools mad... more »
Last Stand for Children First: A Message to Chicago Teachers from JC on the Strike Vote
Last Stand for Children First: A Message to Chicago Teachers from JC on the Strike Vote: A Message to Chicago Teachers from JC on the Strike Vote Dear Teacher, Earlier this evening, I emailed you requesting that you reconsider voting yes in the strike authorization vote in our schools beginning Wednesday, June 6. I have it on very good authority that many of you did not heed my missive and in fact some of you have even taken to openly mocking it on forums and on Facebook. I am asking you again to reconsider and this time the gloves are off. I told you already about SB7. This... more »
Auditors on Fulton Science Academy: “Environment of resistance and obstructionism.” | Get Schooled
Auditors on Fulton Science Academy: “Environment of resistance and obstructionism.” | Get Schooled: Auditors on Fulton Science Academy: “Environment of resistance and obstructionism.” by Maureen Downey [image: Charter Schools - Dividing Communities since 1991] Here are examples of what the auditors reported encountering at Fulton Science Academy Middle School. Here is a link to the full audit. Here is a link to a letter from the school chief to the school board on this issue. Here is a link to a blog on the implications of this audit for charter schools in general. I have includ... more »
What is Failed DC Chancellor Michelle Rhee Buying: Education PAC Pours $400K into CA Charter School Executive's Campaign
Blog: Education PAC Pours $400K into CA Charter School Executive's Campaign: Education PAC Pours $400K into CA Charter School Executive's CampaignAnn Kane Why has an education PAC poured $400,000 into a charter school executive's campaign in Southern California? Michelle Rhee's newly formed "Parents and Teachers for Putting StudentsFirst" opened with $2 million in its accounts and made its first contribution to Democrat Brian Johnson (no relation to Rhee's husband Kevin Johnson) who is running for the California state assembly's 46th district in the June 5 primaries. In the past, ... more »
FCMAT » Cali Education Headlines Tuesday, June 5, 2012
FCMAT » Fiscal Crisis & Management Assistance Team: Education Headlines *Tuesday, June 5, 2012* Defense wants Dumanis off Sweetwater caseAn attorney defending Sweetwater school board member Arlie Ricasa against allegations of bribery and corruption requested Monday that San Diego County District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis be removed from the case. Unusual partnership offers students birth controlThe Los Angeles Unified School District and Planned Parenthood collaborate on a clinic at Roosevelt High, which is in an area with a disproportionately high number of teenage mothers. Lodi Unif... more »
Should Duncan Apologize? « Diane Ravitch's blog
Should Duncan Apologize? « Diane Ravitch's blog: Should Duncan Apologize? by dianerav Secretary Arne Duncan has been on the road selling his idea of “RESPECT” for teachers, but teachers don’t feel any respect from the U.S. Department of Education. Teacher John Thompson has called on Secretary Duncan to apologize for the ways he has encouraged and promoted the currently hostile environment surrounding teachers. The Metlife Survey of the American Teacher reported a dramatic decline in teacher morale from 2009 to 2011. What happened in 2009 that changed the climate? Could it have be... more »
Seattle Schools Community Forum: An Article of Note in Crosscut
Seattle Schools Community Forum: An Article of Note in Crosscut: An Article of Note in Crosscut by Charlie Mas I read an article in Crosscut this morning that was one of the more thought-provoking pieces I've seen about the state of Education Reform in Washington State. "Washington's new education initiative is no A+" by Alison Krupnick explored the wading pool depth of A+ Washington, the Education Reform initiative from Excellent Schools Now. I find myself in a place very much like Ms Krupnick. I feel a great disconnect. In fact, I feel at least three great disconnects. Like her... more »
This Week In Education: Video: Melinda Gates & Diane Ravitch Talk Teacher Evaluation
This Week In Education: Video: Melinda Gates & Diane Ravitch Talk Teacher Evaluation: Video: Melinda Gates & Diane Ravitch Talk Teacher Evaluation Watch Melinda Gates on the Importance of Evaluations in Teaching on PBS. See more from PBS NewsHour. Listen to the Audio or the NewsHour transcript here. Ravitch segment scheduled to air tonight on PBS.
Failed DC Chancellor Michelle Rhee's Students First [sic] Uses Children to Attack Teachers « InterACT
Students First [sic] Uses Children to Attack Teachers « InterACT: Students First [sic] Uses Children to Attack Teachers by David B. Cohen Here we go. Michelle Rhee and her ironically named “Students First” organization will soon announce their *first*big political move in California. Will it be about *students*, and putting their needs *first*? Well, heads up, Los Angeles! They’re coming your way, and your students sure could use some help from this influential and well-funded crowd. I know your students are dealing with shorter school years, class sizes over thirty, over forty i... more »
Schools Matter: Attention All Teachers: Your Union Leaders Are Betraying You
Schools Matter: Attention All Teachers: Your Union Leaders Are Betraying You: Attention All Teachers: Your Union Leaders Are Betraying You by Jim Horn Last year Paul Toner, the ostensible leader of the MA Teachers Association, surrendered his membership by capitulating without a whimper to the first step in the corporate blueprint to replace tenured and experienced teachers with a new generation of untrained neophytes who will cycle through the system after a two to three year stint. That first step in that process was to establish a teacher evaluation scheme based on student te... more »
Jersey Jazzman: Marie Corfield for NJ Assembly
Jersey Jazzman: Marie Corfield for NJ Assembly: Marie Corfield for NJ Assembly by Duke Tomorrow is primary day in New Jersey. I'll keep this really simple: If you are an educator and/or a parent, you deserve a voice in government. You deserve to have one of your own fight for your interests and the interests of your students and/or children (and don't let anyone ever tell you those two interests are not aligned). I'm not saying you should automatically vote for any teacher or parent who runs. But when you find a smart, tough, engaging, charismatic, funny, and brave teacher and mot... more »
FCMAT » Cali Education Headlines Monday, June 4, 2012
FCMAT » Fiscal Crisis & Management Assistance Team: [image: FCMAT] Education Headlines *Monday, June 4, 2012* Suit: Schools got millions, firm got stiffedThe LHA Group filed suit last week against the Garden Grove Unified School District and Y’Deen/Associates Architects, the firm overseeing a 66-school modernization. LHA was asked to swoop in at the 11th hour to help Y’Deen complete plans for 33 schools, so the district could qualify for state matching funds that were disbursed on a first-come, first-served basis, according to court and district documents. LHA jammed, did the work,... more »
Pinellas County School Board Looks to Endorse National Resolution on High Stakes Testing | Scathing Purple Musings
Pinellas County School Board Looks to Endorse National Resolution on High Stakes Testing | Scathing Purple Musings: Pinellas County School Board Looks to Endorse National Resolution on High Stakes Testing by Bob Sikes Reports Cara Fitzpatrick in *Gradebook:* A resolution against high-stakes standardized testing seems to have found favor with the Pinellas County School Board. Board members discussed it briefly Monday during a workshop meeting, quickly agreeing to add it to the agenda of their next regular meeting. “I think we need to adopt this resolution and sign it,” said board mem... more »
SCOTT GRAHAM VS. RAMON CORTINES REVISITED BY LAUSD - Perdaily.com
SCOTT GRAHAM VS. RAMON CORTINES REVISITED BY LAUSD - Perdaily.com: SCOTT GRAHAM VS. RAMON CORTINES REVISITED BY LAUSD by Leonard Isenberg [image: LAUSD Board.jpg] *(Mensaje se repite en Español)* * (For a national view of public education reform see the end of this blog post) "If at first you don't succeed, try, try, again" * * This seems to have become the motto of the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) Board of Directors. Two weeks ago in a clandestine yet well orchestrated proceeding that only certain reporters were initially made aware of, the LAUSD Board attempted to s... more »
Last Stand for Children First: Sinister Teachers Union Treachery in Chicago
Last Stand for Children First: Sinister Teachers Union Treachery in Chicago: Sinister Teachers Union Treachery in Chicago by Last Stand for Children Popout In its long history, the Chicago Teachers Union has done some pretty horrible thing, but the rally that they had on May 23rd may take the cake. You know who else had rallies? Nazis had rallies. Looking at Chicago lawyer Matt Farmer tear into the children of Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Hyatt Heiress Penny Pritzker in the above video simply because their parents want better for them than for the rest of the city of Chicago was
Seattle Schools Community Forum: This is LEV's Example of Good Pro-Charter Opinion?
Seattle Schools Community Forum: This is LEV's Example of Good Pro-Charter Opinion?: This is LEV's Example of Good Pro-Charter Opinion? by Melissa Westbrook [image: Charter Schools - Dividing Communities since 1991] I always like to hear what's going on at educational advocacy groups around our city and state so I check in at LEV's blog (which is a very quiet blog in terms of comments). There was notice that the charter schools bill has been assigned a number - *1240* - and here is the text. (I'll check but I believe that means it is now at the Attorney General's office to be as... more »
The Best Places For ESL/EFL/ELL Teachers To Get Online Professional Development | Larry Ferlazzo’s Websites of the Day…
The Best Places For ESL/EFL/ELL Teachers To Get Online Professional Development | Larry Ferlazzo’s Websites of the Day…: The Best Places For ESL/EFL/ELL Teachers To Get Online Professional Development by Larry Ferlazzo There are quite a few very good ways for ESL/EFL/ELL teachers to get online professional development. I’ve already shared some of those ways in previous “The Best…” lists, including: The Best Ways ESL/EFL/ELL Teachers Can Develop Personal Learning Networks The Best Online Videos Showing ESL/EFL Teachers In The Classroom Here are three other resources that are worth c... more »
Seattle Schools Community Forum: The Reforms I'm For
Seattle Schools Community Forum: The Reforms I'm For: The Reforms I'm For by Charlie Mas We spend a lot of time talking about the reforms promoted by Education Reform Advocacy Organizations which we oppose. I also spend a lot of time correcting them when they say that those who oppose them are fighting for the status quo. So folks might wonder what reforms I actually support. It's a fair question. I absolutely believe that public K-12 education in Washington, and across the country, needs serious reform. It is build on a model that, in turn, is built on the faulty assumption tha... more »
The Strength of our CTU Leaders comes from our Members, Parents, and Students of Chicago Public Schools | The Classroom Sooth
The Strength of our CTU Leaders comes from our Members, Parents, and Students of Chicago Public Schools | The Classroom Sooth: The Strength of our CTU Leaders comes from our Members, Parents, and Students of Chicago Public Schools by classroomsooth Educators across the country are following what’s happening in Chicago to see how we are leading the way against corporate-style education reform that hurts and disempowers the students and teachers in the classroom, the curriculum of our neighborhood schools, and the local leadership of parents and taxpayers for a rich public education... more »
This Week's Education Research Report 6-2-12 #SOSCHAT #EDCHAT #P2
Education Research Report: This Week's Education Research Report Memory training unlikely to help in treating ADHD, boosting IQ Jonathan Kantrowitz at Education Research Report - 21 hours ago *No evidence that working memory training programs improve general cognitive performance, research analysis shows * Working memory training is unlikely to be an effective treatment for children suffering from disorders such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity or dyslexia, according to a research analysis, "Is Working Memory Training Effective? A Meta-Analytic Review," published by the Americ... more »
CA State Senate Education Voter Guide, June 5, 2012: Who Supported Public Education
CA State Senate Education Voter Guide, June 5, 2012: Who Supported Public Education: Education Voter Guide, CA State Senate Races, June 5, 2012: Who Are the Bullies of 2011? by cynthia Coming up on June 5, 2012: California’s first open primary election in which anyone can vote for any candidate. Among other things, you’ll be choosing new State Senators in odd-numbered districts this year. Wondered who’s up for election in the newly redistricted state of California who also DID NOT ALLOW state voters to extend revenue that funded schools? Put briefly, most schools around the stat... more »
Big Education Ape Nite Cap 6-7-12 #SOSCHAT #EDCHAT #P2Big Education Ape Nite Cap 6-7-12 #SOSCHAT #EDCHAT #P2Big Education Ape Nite Cap 6-6-12 #SOSCHAT #EDCHAT #P2Big Education Ape Nite Cap 6-5-12 #SOSCHAT #EDCHAT #P2Big Education Ape Nite Cap 6-4-12 #SOSCHAT #EDCHAT #P2Big Education Ape Nite Cap 6-3-12 #SOSCHAT #EDCHAT #P2
CTA's recommendations for the June 5 primary - California Teachers Association
CTA's recommendations for the June 5 primary - California Teachers Association: CTA's recommendations for the June 5 primary [image: image] CTA’s recommendations for the June 5 primary election Now more than ever, support and VOTE for CTA’s recommended candidates. Remember — your vote makes a difference. In California’s “open primary” system, the top two vote-getters, regardless of political party, will move on to the November general election. Now more than ever we must elect lawmakers who will fund public schools and support teachers. Know that when you cast your vote for CTA-rec... more »
DC Public Schools to replace 18 of Failed DC Chancellor Michelle Rhee's principals | Washington Examiner
DC Public Schools to replace 18 principals | Washington Examiner: DC Public Schools to replace 18 principals The District is quietly replacing 18 of its public school principals, most of whom were hired by former Chancellor Michelle Rhee to turn around the schools. DC Public Schools spokeswoman Melissa Salmanowitz declined to say how many of the 18 principals were retiring, resigning or being fired. But parents told The Washington Examiner that several principals, including Rhee appointees at Garrison Elementary School and Shaw Middle School at Garnet-Patterson, were terminated. Sha... more »
University of Minnesota Scientist Drops Bombshell About Walker: Says He Fathered Child at Marquette | Uppity Wisconsin
After today, she will likely be forever known for coming forward and telling the world that Scott Walker fathered a child and refused to take responsability for it while at Marquette:
Bernadette Gillick was a college freshman in 1988 when she first met Scott
Failed DC Chancellor Michelle Rhee's Reality: Charter School Job Insecurity Leads to Tragedy | Crooks and Liars
Michelle Rhee's Reality: Charter School Job Insecurity Leads to Tragedy | Crooks and Liars: Michelle Rhee's Reality: Charter School Job Insecurity Leads to Tragedy 58 comments By karoli ENLARGE [image: 7307492124_091f917608_n.jpg] Credit: mitco Michelle Rhee loves charter schools. She hates teacher unions. She thinks teachers shouldn't have pensions, only 401k plans. She really, really loathes teacher tenure and is doing her very best to make sure teachers get no respect, have no long term career plans, and that they're divided on a generational basis. She's funded by lots of right... more »
Press Briefing by Press Secretary Jay Carney, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, and Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Richard Cordray, 6/5/12 | The White House
Press Briefing by Press Secretary Jay Carney, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, and Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Richard Cordray, 6/5/12 | The White House: Press Briefing by Press Secretary Jay Carney, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, and Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Richard Cordray, 6/5/12 by The White House James S. Brady Press Briefing Room 2:35 P.M. EDT MR. CARNEY: We apologize for the delay, but we are glad that you’re here and welcome you as ever to the briefing room for your daily briefing. As I think was advertised, I ha... more »
Shop Til You Drop - Failed DC Chancellor Michelle Rhee's June Shopping Spree #SOSCHAT #EDCHAT #P2
*Shop Til You Drop * *Failed DC Chancellor Michelle Rhee's * *June Shopping Spree* *What did Failed DC Chancellor Michelle Rhee's Corporate Millions buy? * *Our Public Schools. * *She plans to spend even more in November. * *Don't let Corporate Reformers Buy * * * *Our Public Schools!* * * * * * * * Beware of AstroTurf Ed Reformers * * * *Just Like Michelle Rhee's Students first only BETTER* * * *Astroturf lobbying refers to political organizations or campaigns that appear to be made up of grassroots activists but are actually organized and run by corporate interests seeking to furthe... more »
NYC Public School Parents: video of Pearson protest today!
NYC Public School Parents: video of Pearson protest today!: video of Pearson protest today! by Leonie Haimson *Go to Parents Across America.* *Lindsey Christ of NY1 did a great story on today's protest at Pearson, the largest education conglomerate in the world and the author of our sadly flawed state tests. Please also see my post in NYT/Schoolbook on theLessons of Pineapplegate. -- Leonie Haimson* Popout
*Parents in 59 Schools Boycott Field Tests for High-Stakes Exams:* *Fed Up With Over-Testing, Parents Protest at Pearson Headquarters for Child Abuse- Parents say less testing moer teaching | Dailycensored.com
*Parents in 59 Schools Boycott Field Tests for High-Stakes Exams:* *Fed Up With Over-Testing, Parents Protest at Pearson Headquarters for Child Abuse- Parents say less testing moer teaching | Dailycensored.com: *Parents in 59 Schools Boycott Field Tests for High-Stakes Exams:* *Fed Up With Over-Testing, Parents Protest at Pearson Headquarters for Child Abuse- Parents say less testing moer teaching by Danny Weil The British corporate child abusers, Pearson Inc., are intent on turning schools into laboratories and labyrynths for testing kids. Stealing childhood is nothing to these... more »
California primaries show Democratic divide on education | Reuters
California primaries show Democratic divide on education | Reuters: *California primaries show Democratic divide on education* [image: DFER Fake Democrats for Education Privatization (click on Picture)] IT IS A RULE: YOU CAN'T BE AGAINST PEOPLE AND FOR CORPORATIONS AND CALL YOURSELF A DEMOCRAT...EVER! (Reuters) - Democratic candidates backed by teachers unions narrowly lost on Tuesday in two California state assembly primary races that highlighted a bitter split in the Democratic Party over education policy. The most contentious race was in Assembly District 46, a heavily Democr... more »
The Washington Teacher: The Cardozo Experiment: DC Public School Gets Race To The Top Funds
The Washington Teacher: The Cardozo Experiment: DC Public School Gets Race To The Top Funds: The Cardozo Experiment: DC Public School Gets Race To The Top Funds by Candi Peterson Written by Candi Peterson So it seems that DC Public Schools will be using Race to The Top (RTTT) Dollars to create more school administrators and educrats which according to the *Urban Dictionary* is an officer, administrator or other bureaucrats in a school district. Similar stories are taking shape around the country as districts race to the top for funds under President Obama's signature 2009 reform ... more »
Seattle Schools Community Forum: Why is the Alliance for Education promoting Charters?
Seattle Schools Community Forum: Why is the Alliance for Education promoting Charters?: Why is the Alliance for Education promoting Charters? by Charlie Mas Here are some recent tweets from the Alliance for Education: *Dave Murray* @*ReporterDMurray* "Parent trigger" bill narrowly clears Michigan senate by a 20-18 vote. Parents can petition for charter conversion, turnaround plan. **Retweeted by *Alliance 4 Education* *Educators4Excellence* @*Ed4Excellence* Instead of pitting schools against each other, we should learn from great ones, district or charter. Peter Cipparone: htt... more »
Missouri Education Watchdog: Common Core = Educational Equity, NOT Educational Excellence.
Missouri Education Watchdog: Common Core = Educational Equity, NOT Educational Excellence.: Common Core = Educational Equity, NOT Educational Excellence. by stlgretchen ...two words NOT allowed in Common Core standards. "Uncommon" & "Creative" Jamie Gass from Pioneer Institute writes about current DOEd education reform and common core standards in an article entitled "Leaves of Memory Going Dark": *Gov. Patrick, Secretary Reville, and other state officials must realize the damage the national standards are doing to the high school English curriculum and require yearlong courses in... more »
Audits for 3 Georgia Charter Schools Tied to Gulen Movement - NYTimes.com
Audits for 3 Georgia Charter Schools Tied to Gulen Movement - NYTimes.com: Audits for 3 Georgia Schools Tied to Turkish MovementBy STEPHANIE SAUL A group of three publicly financed charter schools in Georgia run by followers of Fethullah Gulen, a prominent Turkish imam, have come under scrutiny after they defaulted on bonds and an audit found that the schools improperly granted hundreds of thousands of dollars in contracts to businesses and groups, many of them with ties to the Gulen movement. The audit released Tuesday by the Fulton County Schools near Atlanta found the schools mad... more »
Last Stand for Children First: A Message to Chicago Teachers from JC on the Strike Vote
Last Stand for Children First: A Message to Chicago Teachers from JC on the Strike Vote: A Message to Chicago Teachers from JC on the Strike Vote Dear Teacher, Earlier this evening, I emailed you requesting that you reconsider voting yes in the strike authorization vote in our schools beginning Wednesday, June 6. I have it on very good authority that many of you did not heed my missive and in fact some of you have even taken to openly mocking it on forums and on Facebook. I am asking you again to reconsider and this time the gloves are off. I told you already about SB7. This... more »
Auditors on Fulton Science Academy: “Environment of resistance and obstructionism.” | Get Schooled
Auditors on Fulton Science Academy: “Environment of resistance and obstructionism.” | Get Schooled: Auditors on Fulton Science Academy: “Environment of resistance and obstructionism.” by Maureen Downey [image: Charter Schools - Dividing Communities since 1991] Here are examples of what the auditors reported encountering at Fulton Science Academy Middle School. Here is a link to the full audit. Here is a link to a letter from the school chief to the school board on this issue. Here is a link to a blog on the implications of this audit for charter schools in general. I have includ... more »
What is Failed DC Chancellor Michelle Rhee Buying: Education PAC Pours $400K into CA Charter School Executive's Campaign
Blog: Education PAC Pours $400K into CA Charter School Executive's Campaign: Education PAC Pours $400K into CA Charter School Executive's CampaignAnn Kane Why has an education PAC poured $400,000 into a charter school executive's campaign in Southern California? Michelle Rhee's newly formed "Parents and Teachers for Putting StudentsFirst" opened with $2 million in its accounts and made its first contribution to Democrat Brian Johnson (no relation to Rhee's husband Kevin Johnson) who is running for the California state assembly's 46th district in the June 5 primaries. In the past, ... more »
FCMAT » Cali Education Headlines Tuesday, June 5, 2012
FCMAT » Fiscal Crisis & Management Assistance Team: Education Headlines *Tuesday, June 5, 2012* Defense wants Dumanis off Sweetwater caseAn attorney defending Sweetwater school board member Arlie Ricasa against allegations of bribery and corruption requested Monday that San Diego County District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis be removed from the case. Unusual partnership offers students birth controlThe Los Angeles Unified School District and Planned Parenthood collaborate on a clinic at Roosevelt High, which is in an area with a disproportionately high number of teenage mothers. Lodi Unif... more »
Should Duncan Apologize? « Diane Ravitch's blog
Should Duncan Apologize? « Diane Ravitch's blog: Should Duncan Apologize? by dianerav Secretary Arne Duncan has been on the road selling his idea of “RESPECT” for teachers, but teachers don’t feel any respect from the U.S. Department of Education. Teacher John Thompson has called on Secretary Duncan to apologize for the ways he has encouraged and promoted the currently hostile environment surrounding teachers. The Metlife Survey of the American Teacher reported a dramatic decline in teacher morale from 2009 to 2011. What happened in 2009 that changed the climate? Could it have be... more »
Seattle Schools Community Forum: An Article of Note in Crosscut
Seattle Schools Community Forum: An Article of Note in Crosscut: An Article of Note in Crosscut by Charlie Mas I read an article in Crosscut this morning that was one of the more thought-provoking pieces I've seen about the state of Education Reform in Washington State. "Washington's new education initiative is no A+" by Alison Krupnick explored the wading pool depth of A+ Washington, the Education Reform initiative from Excellent Schools Now. I find myself in a place very much like Ms Krupnick. I feel a great disconnect. In fact, I feel at least three great disconnects. Like her... more »
This Week In Education: Video: Melinda Gates & Diane Ravitch Talk Teacher Evaluation
This Week In Education: Video: Melinda Gates & Diane Ravitch Talk Teacher Evaluation: Video: Melinda Gates & Diane Ravitch Talk Teacher Evaluation Watch Melinda Gates on the Importance of Evaluations in Teaching on PBS. See more from PBS NewsHour. Listen to the Audio or the NewsHour transcript here. Ravitch segment scheduled to air tonight on PBS.
Failed DC Chancellor Michelle Rhee's Students First [sic] Uses Children to Attack Teachers « InterACT
Students First [sic] Uses Children to Attack Teachers « InterACT: Students First [sic] Uses Children to Attack Teachers by David B. Cohen Here we go. Michelle Rhee and her ironically named “Students First” organization will soon announce their *first*big political move in California. Will it be about *students*, and putting their needs *first*? Well, heads up, Los Angeles! They’re coming your way, and your students sure could use some help from this influential and well-funded crowd. I know your students are dealing with shorter school years, class sizes over thirty, over forty i... more »
Schools Matter: Attention All Teachers: Your Union Leaders Are Betraying You
Schools Matter: Attention All Teachers: Your Union Leaders Are Betraying You: Attention All Teachers: Your Union Leaders Are Betraying You by Jim Horn Last year Paul Toner, the ostensible leader of the MA Teachers Association, surrendered his membership by capitulating without a whimper to the first step in the corporate blueprint to replace tenured and experienced teachers with a new generation of untrained neophytes who will cycle through the system after a two to three year stint. That first step in that process was to establish a teacher evaluation scheme based on student te... more »
Jersey Jazzman: Marie Corfield for NJ Assembly
Jersey Jazzman: Marie Corfield for NJ Assembly: Marie Corfield for NJ Assembly by Duke Tomorrow is primary day in New Jersey. I'll keep this really simple: If you are an educator and/or a parent, you deserve a voice in government. You deserve to have one of your own fight for your interests and the interests of your students and/or children (and don't let anyone ever tell you those two interests are not aligned). I'm not saying you should automatically vote for any teacher or parent who runs. But when you find a smart, tough, engaging, charismatic, funny, and brave teacher and mot... more »
FCMAT » Cali Education Headlines Monday, June 4, 2012
FCMAT » Fiscal Crisis & Management Assistance Team: [image: FCMAT] Education Headlines *Monday, June 4, 2012* Suit: Schools got millions, firm got stiffedThe LHA Group filed suit last week against the Garden Grove Unified School District and Y’Deen/Associates Architects, the firm overseeing a 66-school modernization. LHA was asked to swoop in at the 11th hour to help Y’Deen complete plans for 33 schools, so the district could qualify for state matching funds that were disbursed on a first-come, first-served basis, according to court and district documents. LHA jammed, did the work,... more »
Pinellas County School Board Looks to Endorse National Resolution on High Stakes Testing | Scathing Purple Musings
Pinellas County School Board Looks to Endorse National Resolution on High Stakes Testing | Scathing Purple Musings: Pinellas County School Board Looks to Endorse National Resolution on High Stakes Testing by Bob Sikes Reports Cara Fitzpatrick in *Gradebook:* A resolution against high-stakes standardized testing seems to have found favor with the Pinellas County School Board. Board members discussed it briefly Monday during a workshop meeting, quickly agreeing to add it to the agenda of their next regular meeting. “I think we need to adopt this resolution and sign it,” said board mem... more »
SCOTT GRAHAM VS. RAMON CORTINES REVISITED BY LAUSD - Perdaily.com
SCOTT GRAHAM VS. RAMON CORTINES REVISITED BY LAUSD - Perdaily.com: SCOTT GRAHAM VS. RAMON CORTINES REVISITED BY LAUSD by Leonard Isenberg [image: LAUSD Board.jpg] *(Mensaje se repite en Español)* * (For a national view of public education reform see the end of this blog post) "If at first you don't succeed, try, try, again" * * This seems to have become the motto of the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) Board of Directors. Two weeks ago in a clandestine yet well orchestrated proceeding that only certain reporters were initially made aware of, the LAUSD Board attempted to s... more »
Last Stand for Children First: Sinister Teachers Union Treachery in Chicago
Last Stand for Children First: Sinister Teachers Union Treachery in Chicago: Sinister Teachers Union Treachery in Chicago by Last Stand for Children Popout In its long history, the Chicago Teachers Union has done some pretty horrible thing, but the rally that they had on May 23rd may take the cake. You know who else had rallies? Nazis had rallies. Looking at Chicago lawyer Matt Farmer tear into the children of Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Hyatt Heiress Penny Pritzker in the above video simply because their parents want better for them than for the rest of the city of Chicago was
Seattle Schools Community Forum: This is LEV's Example of Good Pro-Charter Opinion?
Seattle Schools Community Forum: This is LEV's Example of Good Pro-Charter Opinion?: This is LEV's Example of Good Pro-Charter Opinion? by Melissa Westbrook [image: Charter Schools - Dividing Communities since 1991] I always like to hear what's going on at educational advocacy groups around our city and state so I check in at LEV's blog (which is a very quiet blog in terms of comments). There was notice that the charter schools bill has been assigned a number - *1240* - and here is the text. (I'll check but I believe that means it is now at the Attorney General's office to be as... more »
The Best Places For ESL/EFL/ELL Teachers To Get Online Professional Development | Larry Ferlazzo’s Websites of the Day…
The Best Places For ESL/EFL/ELL Teachers To Get Online Professional Development | Larry Ferlazzo’s Websites of the Day…: The Best Places For ESL/EFL/ELL Teachers To Get Online Professional Development by Larry Ferlazzo There are quite a few very good ways for ESL/EFL/ELL teachers to get online professional development. I’ve already shared some of those ways in previous “The Best…” lists, including: The Best Ways ESL/EFL/ELL Teachers Can Develop Personal Learning Networks The Best Online Videos Showing ESL/EFL Teachers In The Classroom Here are three other resources that are worth c... more »
Seattle Schools Community Forum: The Reforms I'm For
Seattle Schools Community Forum: The Reforms I'm For: The Reforms I'm For by Charlie Mas We spend a lot of time talking about the reforms promoted by Education Reform Advocacy Organizations which we oppose. I also spend a lot of time correcting them when they say that those who oppose them are fighting for the status quo. So folks might wonder what reforms I actually support. It's a fair question. I absolutely believe that public K-12 education in Washington, and across the country, needs serious reform. It is build on a model that, in turn, is built on the faulty assumption tha... more »
The Strength of our CTU Leaders comes from our Members, Parents, and Students of Chicago Public Schools | The Classroom Sooth
The Strength of our CTU Leaders comes from our Members, Parents, and Students of Chicago Public Schools | The Classroom Sooth: The Strength of our CTU Leaders comes from our Members, Parents, and Students of Chicago Public Schools by classroomsooth Educators across the country are following what’s happening in Chicago to see how we are leading the way against corporate-style education reform that hurts and disempowers the students and teachers in the classroom, the curriculum of our neighborhood schools, and the local leadership of parents and taxpayers for a rich public education... more »
This Week's Education Research Report 6-2-12 #SOSCHAT #EDCHAT #P2
Education Research Report: This Week's Education Research Report Memory training unlikely to help in treating ADHD, boosting IQ Jonathan Kantrowitz at Education Research Report - 21 hours ago *No evidence that working memory training programs improve general cognitive performance, research analysis shows * Working memory training is unlikely to be an effective treatment for children suffering from disorders such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity or dyslexia, according to a research analysis, "Is Working Memory Training Effective? A Meta-Analytic Review," published by the Americ... more »
CA State Senate Education Voter Guide, June 5, 2012: Who Supported Public Education
CA State Senate Education Voter Guide, June 5, 2012: Who Supported Public Education: Education Voter Guide, CA State Senate Races, June 5, 2012: Who Are the Bullies of 2011? by cynthia Coming up on June 5, 2012: California’s first open primary election in which anyone can vote for any candidate. Among other things, you’ll be choosing new State Senators in odd-numbered districts this year. Wondered who’s up for election in the newly redistricted state of California who also DID NOT ALLOW state voters to extend revenue that funded schools? Put briefly, most schools around the stat... more »
Big Education Ape Nite Cap 6-7-12 #SOSCHAT #EDCHAT #P2Big Education Ape Nite Cap 6-7-12 #SOSCHAT #EDCHAT #P2Big Education Ape Nite Cap 6-6-12 #SOSCHAT #EDCHAT #P2Big Education Ape Nite Cap 6-5-12 #SOSCHAT #EDCHAT #P2Big Education Ape Nite Cap 6-4-12 #SOSCHAT #EDCHAT #P2Big Education Ape Nite Cap 6-3-12 #SOSCHAT #EDCHAT #P2
Big Education Ape Nite Cap 6-7-12 #SOSCHAT #EDCHAT #P2Big Education Ape Nite Cap 6-7-12 #SOSCHAT #EDCHAT #P2Big Education Ape Nite Cap 6-6-12 #SOSCHAT #EDCHAT #P2Big Education Ape Nite Cap 6-5-12 #SOSCHAT #EDCHAT #P2Big Education Ape Nite Cap 6-4-12 #SOSCHAT #EDCHAT #P2Big Education Ape Nite Cap 6-3-12 #SOSCHAT #EDCHAT #P2