Now We Know Our ABCs, and Charter Schools Get an F
PAUL BUCHHEIT FOR BUZZFLASH AT TRUTHOUT
The Chicago teacher strike is over, but the assault on our nation's children has just begun. As with all free market systems, the price is set high enough to ensure a profit for the companies doing business, even though not everyone will be able to afford their product.
With our private health care system, 1 out of 6 Americans are uninsured. It's frightening to think of a private educational system in which 1 out of 6 children have to settle for an inferior education.
We've learned a lot in recent years from the struggles within our schools. Here are three sensible considerations for anyone involved in the education of our children.
A. Assessment of Teachers? Before Hiring, Not After.
It's nearly impossible to judge the long-term effectiveness of any one teacher, given the incalculable variables of student demographics and school funding. And independent-thinking Americans are reluctant to look beyond their own country's borders for solutions.
But perhaps we should try. Finland's schools were considered mediocre 30 years ago, but they've achieved a remarkable