OHIO MAGA PUBLIC SCHOOL POWER GRAB HEADED FOR END GAME

 

OHIO MAGA PUBLIC SCHOOL POWER GRAB HEADED FOR END GAME

In the state of Ohio, the Republican party has launched a power grab over public education. Yes, you heard it right, they want to strip the State Board of Education of nearly all of its authority and place it in a new cabinet-level position under the governor. And why, you may ask? Well, because Democrats and teachers' unions won all three open seats on the board in the general election. Talk about sore losers!

But they're not alone in this power grab. The usual MAGA suspects have come out in full force to support this move. The Club for Growth, Center for Christian Virtue, American Federation for Children, Foundation for Excellence in Education, Walton Family Foundation, Thomas B. Fordham Institute, Ohio Alliance for Public Charter Schools, EdChoice Ohio, Ohio Catholic Conference, and Buckeye Institute are all behind this move. It's like a who's who of people who don't care about public education.

But what does this mean for public education in Ohio? Well, according to a New Republic article, it means devastation. The Republicans have been diverting funds to charter schools, voucher programs, and tax credits that benefit wealthy donors and private schools. And Ohio is a prime example of how this strategy has led to lower state education rankings, corruption scandals, and reduced accountability.

So what are the Republicans' views on education? According to a website that summarizes Republican views on various issues, they believe in limiting the federal government in education and giving more power to state and local authorities. They support school choice, merit pay for teachers, and standardized testing. Basically, they want to privatize education and turn it into a profit-making machine.

But not everyone is on board with this plan. Some of the detractors of public education in Ohio are the Ohio GOP legislature, Steve Dackin (the former state superintendent of public instruction who resigned after two weeks on the job amid ethics concerns), and school choice advocates. These groups argue that public education is a common good and should be funded and supported by the government.

On the other hand, some of the supporters of the GOP takeover of public education in Ohio are Ohio Senate President Matt Huffman, State Sen. Bill Reineke, and school choice advocates. They argue that the restructuring of the education system will create more accountability and efficiency in education policy and align it with workforce development.

But who are these school choice advocates? Well, they're groups or individuals who support vouchers, charter schools, tax credits and other alternatives to public education. They argue that these options provide more choice, competition and accountability in education. However, critics say that they divert funds from public education, lack transparency and oversight, and undermine public education as a common good.

So who's funding these school choice advocates? The Thomas B. Fordham Institute, Walton Family Foundation, Club for Growth, Children's Scholarship Fund, American Federation for Children, Foundation for Excellence in Education, and Buckeye Institute are just a few of the major foundations, groups, individuals and organizations that are supporting the GOP takeover of public education in Ohio.

But not everyone is buying into their rhetoric. The Ohio School Boards Association (OSBA), Community Relations - Advocacy program offered by OSBA, Public Education Partners are all advocating for public education in Ohio. They support adequate and equitable funding for public schools, oppose vouchers and charter schools that divert funds from public education, and promote transparency and accountability in education policy.

So what can we do to stop this power grab? Well, we can start by speaking out against it. We can contact our elected officials and let them know that we support public education and oppose any attempts to privatize it. We can also support organizations like OSBA and Public Education Partners that are fighting to protect public education in Ohio.

In conclusion, the Republicans in Ohio are trying to strip public education of its authority and turn it into a profit-making machine. But we can fight back against this power grab by speaking out and supporting organizations that are advocating for public education. After all, as they say, knowledge is power.

FOR SOME OF THE BEST REPORTING ON THE CRISIS IN OHIO PUBLIC EDUCATION FOLLOW JAN RESSEGER BLOG: jan resseger | "That all citizens will be given an equal start through a sound education is one of the most basic, promised rights of our democracy.  https://janresseger.wordpress.com/ 

THE DEFT DIVE

Some information on public education in Ohio and the Republican approach. Here are some of the main points:

• - **Ohio GOP launches a power grab over public education**: According to an analysis by WVXU, the Republican-controlled Ohio Senate has introduced a bill that would strip the state board of education of nearly all of its authority and place it in a new cabinet-level position under the governor. The bill was motivated by the fact that Democrats and teachers' unions won all three open seats on the board in the general election. The bill would also remove the board's oversight on contentious issues like critical race theory and transgender sports¹.
• - **Ohio Republican lawmakers introduce bill to ban divisive concepts from public schools**: Reps. Mike Loychik and Jean Schmidt have proposed a bill that aims to ban curriculum that promotes divisive or racist concepts in public schools, such as critical race theory, intersectionality, diversity, equity, and inclusion learning outcomes, and sexual orientation and gender identity for students in kindergarten through third grade. The bill's supporters say it promotes free and fair discussion, while its opponents say it is a disingenuous attack on educators and public schools².
• - **The Republican plan to devastate public education in America**: A New Republic article argues that Republicans across the country have been undermining public education by diverting funds to charter schools, voucher programs, and tax credits that benefit wealthy donors and private schools. The article cites Ohio as an example of how this strategy has led to lower state education rankings, corruption scandals, and reduced accountability³.
• - **Republican views on education**: According to a website that summarizes Republican views on various issues, Republicans believe in a restructuring of higher education that would leave more students equipped for their desired fields and less working minimum wage jobs. They also believe in limiting the federal government in education and giving more power to state and local authorities. They support school choice, merit pay for teachers, and standardized testing⁴.

Bing, 7/13/2023

(1) Analysis: Ohio GOP launches a power grab over public education ... - WVXU. https://www.wvxu.org/politics/2022-11-18/analysis-ohio-gop-legislature-power-grab-control-public-education.

(2) Ohio Republican lawmakers introduce bill to ban divisive concepts from .... https://news.ballotpedia.org/2022/05/02/ohio-republican-lawmakers-introduce-bill-to-ban-divisive-concepts-from-public-schools/.

(3) The Republican Plan To Devastate Public Education in America. https://newrepublic.com/article/167375/republican-plan-devastate-public-education-america.

(4) Republican Views on Education | Republican Views. https://www.republicanviews.org/republican-views-on-education/.

Some of the detractors of public education in Ohio are:

• - **Ohio GOP legislature**: According to an analysis by WVXU, the Republican-controlled Ohio Senate has introduced a bill that would strip the state board of education of nearly all of its authority and place it in a new cabinet-level position under the governor. The bill was motivated by the fact that Democrats and teachers' unions won all three open seats on the board in the general election. The bill would also remove the board's oversight on contentious issues like critical race theory and transgender sports¹.
• - **Steve Dackin**: He was the former state superintendent of public instruction who resigned after two weeks on the job amid ethics concerns. He had led the search for the state superintendent job as a state board member, then resigned from the board and applied for the job himself. He had also attended closed-door meetings about the job and potentially seen his competitors' applications. The Ohio Ethics Commission said it was likely to open an inquiry into his actions².
• - **School choice advocates**: These are groups or individuals who support vouchers, charter schools, tax credits and other alternatives to public education. They argue that these options provide more choice, competition and accountability in education. However, critics say that they divert funds from public education, lack transparency and oversight, and undermine public education as a common good³⁴.

Bing, 7/13/2023

(1) Analysis: Ohio GOP launches a power grab over public education ... - WVXU. https://www.wvxu.org/politics/2022-11-18/analysis-ohio-gop-legislature-power-grab-control-public-education.

(2) Ohio will keep looking for a leader of K-12 public education after .... https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/2022/06/14/ohio-search-new-education-leader-after-surprise-resignation/7620333001/.

(3) Public Schools | Ohio Department of Education. https://education.ohio.gov/Topics/Ohio-Education-Options/Public-Schools.

(4) Education Department - Ohio.gov. https://ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/site/government/state-agencies/department-of-education.

Some of the supporters of the GOP takeover of public education in Ohio are:

• - **Ohio Senate President Matt Huffman**: He is the leader of the Ohio Senate and the sponsor of Senate Bill 178, which would strip the state board of education of nearly all of its authority and place it in a new cabinet-level position under the governor. He said the bill would create more accountability and efficiency in education policy and align it with workforce development¹.
• - **State Sen. Bill Reineke**: He is the co-sponsor of Senate Bill 178 and a former state board of education member. He said the bill would modernize and streamline the education system and make it more responsive to the needs of students and employers¹³.
• - **School choice advocates**: These are groups or individuals who support vouchers, charter schools, tax credits and other alternatives to public education. They argue that these options provide more choice, competition and accountability in education. They may see the GOP takeover of public education as a way to advance their agenda and weaken the influence of public school supporters².

Bing, 7/13/2023

(1) Analysis: Ohio GOP launches a power grab over public education ... - WVXU. https://www.wvxu.org/politics/2022-11-18/analysis-ohio-gop-legislature-power-grab-control-public-education.

(2) SB 1 - HONESTY FOR OHIO EDUCATION. https://www.honestyforohioeducation.org/sb-1.html.

(3) Tell Legislators to Stop the State Takeover of Ohio Public Education .... https://actionnetwork.org/letters/tell-legislators-to-stop-the-state-takeover-of-ohio-public-education/.

Some of the school choice advocates, major foundations, groups, individuals and organizations that are supporting the GOP takeover of public education in Ohio are:

• - **Club for Growth**: This is a conservative group that supports pro-growth policies and candidates. It has been running ads against Ohio House Speaker Charles McCall, who opposes the bill that would strip the state board of education of its authority and place it under the governor. The group accuses McCall of "silencing parents" and supports school choice as a way to empower families and improve education¹.
• - **Center for Christian Virtue**: This is a Christian organization that promotes biblical values and policies in Ohio. It has praised the bill as a great way to expand educational opportunities in Ohio and supports school choice as a way to allow parents to choose the best education for their children according to their faith and values².
• - **Gov. Mike DeWine**: He is the Republican governor of Ohio who backs the bill that would restructure the education system and make it a cabinet-level agency under his control. He has said that the bill would create more accountability and efficiency in education policy and align it with workforce development³.

Bing, 7/13/2023

(1) Why School Choice is Roiling the GOP - U.S. News & World Report. https://www.usnews.com/news/national-news/articles/2022-03-07/why-school-choice-is-suddenly-roiling-the-republican-party.

(2) Ohio Passes School Choice, Independence From District School Monopoly. https://www.dailysignal.com/2023/07/05/ohioans-declare-independence-district-school-monopoly/.

(3) Ohio GOP wants every K-12 student to be eligible for a school voucher. https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/2021/05/06/ohio-house-republicans-want-universal-eligibility-school-vouchers/7154944002/.

Some of the organizations that support vouchers in Ohio are:

• - **School Choice Ohio**: This is a nonprofit organization that advocates for school choice policies and programs in Ohio. It provides information and resources to parents and students about the different education options available to them, including vouchers, charter schools, online schools, homeschooling, and more. It also supports legislation that expands school choice and empowers families¹.
• - **Buckeye Institute**: This is a conservative think tank that promotes free-market solutions and limited government in Ohio. It supports school choice as a way to improve educational outcomes, foster competition and innovation, and respect parental rights. It conducts research and analysis on various school choice policies and programs, such as vouchers, tax credits, education savings accounts, and more².
• - **Ohio Catholic Conference**: This is the official representative of the Catholic Church in public affairs in Ohio. It supports school choice as a way to uphold the dignity of the human person, promote the common good, and protect religious freedom. It advocates for policies that support Catholic schools and families, such as vouchers, tax credits, scholarships, and more³.

Bing, 7/13/2023

(1) Emergency Housing Vouchers Coming to Ohio – COHHIO. https://cohhio.org/emergency-housing-vouchers-in-arpa/.

(2) Assistance Programs - Ohio.gov. https://ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/site/residents/topic-hubs/home-and-community/assistance-programs.

(3) 7 Places to get Free Gas Cards - Free Financial Help. https://freefinancialhelp.net/free-gas-cards-for-low-income/.

(4) COHHIO – Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio. https://cohhio.org/.

Some of the organizations that support charter schools and private schools in Ohio are:

• - **Ohio Alliance for Public Charter Schools (OAPCS)**: This is a nonprofit organization that engages and serves Ohio’s public charter schools and the diverse students they represent by fostering or delivering excellence in governance, steadfast advocacy, superior services, relevant professional development and customized training. It provides information, resources, and support to charter schools, parents, and students. It also advocates for policies that promote charter school quality and growth¹.
• - **EdChoice Ohio**: This is a nonprofit organization that advocates for school choice policies and programs in Ohio. It provides information and resources to parents and students about the different education options available to them, including vouchers, tax credits, charter schools, online schools, homeschooling, and more. It also supports legislation that expands school choice and empowers families².
• - **Ohio Catholic Conference**: This is the official representative of the Catholic Church in public affairs in Ohio. It supports school choice as a way to uphold the dignity of the human person, promote the common good, and protect religious freedom. It advocates for policies that support Catholic schools and families, such as vouchers, tax credits, scholarships, and more³.

Bing, 7/13/2023

(1) oapcs.org. https://oapcs.org/.

(2) Ohio - EdChoice. https://www.edchoice.org/school-choice/state/ohio/.

(3) Ohio can't afford to prioritize private and charter schools over fully .... https://ohiocapitaljournal.com/2023/02/10/ohio-cant-afford-to-prioritize-private-and-charter-schools-over-fully-funded-public-schools/.

(4) Private (Nonpublic) Schools – School Choice Ohio. https://scohio.org/education-options/private-schools/.

Some of the funders of school choice in Ohio are:

• - **Thomas B. Fordham Institute**: This is a conservative think tank and charter school sponsor that supports school choice policies and programs in Ohio. It conducts research and analysis on various school choice issues, such as vouchers, charter schools, accountability, and quality. It also advocates for policies that promote school choice and foster competition and innovation in education¹.
• - **Walton Family Foundation**: This is a philanthropic organization that supports school choice initiatives across the country, including in Ohio. It provides grants to various organizations that advocate for or operate school choice programs, such as vouchers, charter schools, tax credits, and education savings accounts. It also supports research and evaluation on the impact of school choice on student outcomes².
• - **Club for Growth**: This is a conservative group that supports pro-growth policies and candidates. It has been running ads against Ohio House Speaker Charles McCall, who opposes the bill that would strip the state board of education of its authority and place it under the governor. The group accuses McCall of "silencing parents" and supports school choice as a way to empower families and improve education³.

Bing, 7/13/2023

(1) Proposals would bring dramatic change to Ohio’s voucher program. https://apnews.com/article/ohio-voucher-school-choice-funding-0f5304861d4082e572db49c4981146b1.

(2) About Us – School Choice Ohio. https://scohio.org/about/.

(3) School Choice Ohio. https://scohio.org/.

(4) Scholarship Programs (Vouchers) – School Choice Ohio. https://scohio.org/education-options/scholarship-programs/.

(5) Bill would allow all Ohio kids to attend private schools using state .... https://www.statenews.org/government-politics/2021-10-07/new-bill-would-allow-all-k-12-ohio-kids-to-attend-private-schools-using-state-dollars.

Some of the other funders of school choice in Ohio are:

• - **Children's Scholarship Fund**: This is a national nonprofit organization that provides scholarships to low-income families to send their children to private schools of their choice. It partners with local organizations, such as the Northwest Ohio Scholarship Fund, to administer the scholarships and raise funds from donors¹.
• - **American Federation for Children**: This is a national advocacy organization that promotes school choice policies and programs across the country, including in Ohio. It supports candidates who are favorable to school choice, conducts public awareness campaigns, and provides information and resources to parents and students².
• - **Foundation for Excellence in Education**: This is a national nonprofit organization that supports education reform policies and initiatives, such as school choice, accountability, digital learning, and more. It provides research, analysis, advocacy, and technical assistance to policymakers and stakeholders in various states, including Ohio³.

Bing, 7/13/2023

(1) About Us – School Choice Ohio. https://scohio.org/about/.

(2) Ohio - EdChoice. https://www.edchoice.org/school-choice/state/ohio/.

(3) The States Ranked by Spending on School Choice Programs, 2022 Edition. https://www.edchoice.org/engage/the-states-ranked-by-spending-on-school-choice-programs-2022-edition/.

(4) School Choice Ohio | Find Grantmakers & Nonprofit Funders | Foundation .... https://fconline.foundationcenter.org/fdo-grantmaker-profile/?collection=grantmakers&key=9300013.

Some of the supporters of public education in Ohio are:

• - **Ohio School Boards Association (OSBA)**: This is an organization that engages and serves Ohio’s public school board members and the diverse districts they represent by fostering or delivering excellence in governance, steadfast advocacy, superior services, relevant professional development and customized training. OSBA has a legislative platform that states its positions on various issues facing public education and advocates for them with policymakers and the public¹.
• - **Community Relations - Advocacy**: This is a program offered by OSBA that helps board members become effective advocates for public education by providing them with tools, resources and training. The program emphasizes the link between quality public education and the economic and social health of a community and the impact of legislative mandates on student achievement².
• - **Public Education Partners**: This is a group of educators, parents and other interested parties advocating for public education in Ohio. The group supports adequate and equitable funding for public schools, opposes vouchers and charter schools that divert funds from public education, and promotes transparency and accountability in education policy. The group is also involved in litigation against the state over the legality of voucher programs³⁴.

Bing, 7/13/2023

(1) Legislative Platform | Ohio School Boards Association. https://www.ohioschoolboards.org/legislative-platform.

(2) Community Relations - Advocacy | Ohio School Boards Association. https://www.ohioschoolboards.org/community-relations-advocacy.

(3) Ohio public schools sue, challenge legality of voucher programs. https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/2022/01/04/ohio-public-schools-sue-challenge-legality-voucher-programs/9080263002/.

(4) Opinion: What is Senate Bill 11. What will it do to public schools?. https://www.dispatch.com/story/opinion/columns/guest/2023/03/22/opinion-ohio-school-vouchers-what-is-senate-bill-11-what-will-it-do-to-public-schools-edchoice/69964355007/.

READING FOR FUN? NO LONGER FUN! SAY WHAT?

 

READING FOR FUN?  NO LONGER FUN! SAY WHAT?

It seems that reading for fun has become a thing of the past. According to recent reports, US students are experiencing a "crisis" when it comes to reading for pleasure. But why is this happening? And more importantly, what can we do about it?

First of all, let's talk about why reading for fun is important. Not only does it help improve your mental health by reducing stress and stimulating your brain, but it also exposes you to new topics, perspectives, and cultures. Plus, it's a great way to expand your vocabulary and learn more about yourself. And let's not forget the most important benefit of all - it's fun!

But despite all these benefits, it seems that fewer and fewer students are picking up a book just for the sake of enjoyment. According to the Nation's Report Card, only 14 percent of 13-year-olds and 11 percent of 17-year-olds reported reading for fun on their own time almost every day in 2020. That's lower than in previous years and even lower than the percentage of 9-year-olds who read for fun almost every day (a whopping 42 percent).

So what's the problem? Is it that students are too busy with schoolwork and extracurricular activities? Are they too distracted by technology and social media? Or maybe they just haven't found the right book yet?

Whatever the reason may be, we need to find a way to get students excited about reading again. One solution could be to recommend books that are both entertaining and educational. For example, why not try a humorous memoir like Tina Fey's "Bossypants" or a science fiction novel like "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy"? These types of books are not only fun to read, but they also offer valuable insights and perspectives.

Another solution could be to make reading more social. Start a book club with your friends or join an online community where you can discuss your favorite books with other readers. Not only will this make reading more enjoyable, but it will also help you stay motivated and accountable.

And finally, let's not forget that reading for fun should be just that - fun! Don't force yourself to read something you don't enjoy just because you think you should. There are plenty of books out there that cater to every interest and taste. Whether you prefer romance, mystery, fantasy, or non-fiction, there's something out there for everyone.

In conclusion, reading for fun is an important activity that should not be overlooked. It offers numerous benefits for both your personal and academic life, and most importantly, it's a great way to have a good time. So go ahead, pick up a book, and let yourself get lost in a world of words. Who knows, you might just discover a new favorite author or genre. And if all else fails, there's always the comic book section. Happy reading!

Reading for fun plunges to 'crisis' level for US students https://thehill.com/homenews/education/4093843-reading-for-fun-plunges-to-crisis-level-for-us-students/ 

THE DEFT DIVE

Reading for fun is a wonderful activity that can have many benefits for your personal and academic life. According to various sources, some of the benefits of reading for fun are:

• - Reading can help you improve your mental health by reducing stress, enhancing empathy, and stimulating your brain¹².
• - Reading can help you learn new things by exposing you to different topics, perspectives, and cultures¹²³.
• - Reading can improve your vocabulary by introducing you to new words and expressions¹²³.
• - Reading can help you learn more about yourself by allowing you to reflect on your own experiences, values, and goals¹².
• - Reading can be fun by engaging your imagination, curiosity, and emotions¹⁴.

Bing, 7/13/2023

(1) The Benefits of Reading for Fun - The Edvocate. https://www.theedadvocate.org/the-benefits-of-reading-for-fun/.

(2) The Benefits of Reading for Fun - Edutopia. https://www.edutopia.org/article/benefits-reading-fun.

(3) The Benefits of Reading for Pleasure | Edutopia. https://www.edutopia.org/article/benefits-reading-pleasure.

(4) The Benefits of Reading for Fun. https://www.thereadingtutor.com/single-post/the-benefits-of-reading-for-fun.

According to the **Nation's Report Card**, which is based on the **National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP)**, only **14 percent** of 13-year-old students and **11 percent** of 17-year-old students reported reading for fun on their own time almost every day in 2020¹. These percentages were lower than in previous years and lower than the percentages for 9-year-old students, who reported reading for fun almost every day at **42 percent**¹.

Bing, 7/13/2023

(1) NAEP Long-term Trends: Reading: Student Experiences - Nation's Report Card. https://www.nationsreportcard.gov/ltt/reading/student-experiences/?age=9.

(2) The Nation's Report Card | NAEP - National Center for Education .... https://nces.ed.gov/nationsreportcard/.

(3) NAEP Reading: Reading Results - Nation's Report Card. https://www.nationsreportcard.gov/reading/.

(4) The Nation's Report Card. http://www.nationsreportcard.gov/.

(5) NAEP Reading: Reading Highlights 2022 - Nation's Report Card. https://www.nationsreportcard.gov/highlights/reading/2022/.

FEARLESS LEADER RYAN WALTERS SAY TO WORK AT OSDE YOU GOTTA BE MAGA

 

FEARLESS LEADER RYAN WALTERS SAY TO WORK AT OSDE YOU GOTTA BE MAGA 

Fearless Leader Ryan Walters, AKA Oklahoma State Superintendent of Public Education, has demanded that all job applicants take a loyalty oath to support his policies. Yes, you read that right. A loyalty oath. In 2023. 

Now, I don't know about you, but the last time I heard about a loyalty oath was in some dystopian novel where the government had taken over and was forcing its citizens to swear allegiance to the regime. But apparently, this is now a thing in Oklahoma. 

According to reports, job applicants are being asked if they support Superintendent Walters and his initiatives. But when asked to clarify what those initiatives are, the applicants are left scratching their heads. Because apparently, even the people who work for the guy don't know what his policies are. 

OSDE applicant pre-screening questions. Photo courtesy: Michelle Strain.

One applicant was quoted as saying, "We haven't been allowed to do social emotional learning here or talk about it really. We've had to remove it from our presentations, our digital resources." Is this appropriate? Is this legal? Who knows? But it's definitely not funny. 

So let's take a moment to appreciate the sheer audacity of Fearless Leader Ryan Walters. He's demanding loyalty from his employees without even telling them what they're being loyal to. It's like asking someone to swear allegiance to a blank sheet of paper. 

But fear not, my fellow Oklahomans. I have a plan. We should all show up at the next job interview with a loyalty oath of our own. It would go something like this: 

"I pledge my undying allegiance to the great state of Oklahoma and its people. I promise to always put their needs first, to work tirelessly for their betterment, and to never ask them to swear loyalty to me without first telling them what they're swearing loyalty to. So help me God." 

Boom. Problem solved. We can all go back to our jobs knowing that we're not blindly following some politician's whims without knowing what they are. 

In all seriousness though, this is a troubling trend that we're seeing across the country. Politicians are demanding loyalty from their employees and constituents without giving them any reason to be loyal in the first place. It's a slippery slope that can lead to some very dark places. 

So let's all take a stand against this kind of behavior. Let's demand transparency and accountability from our elected officials. And let's never forget that our loyalty should always be to the people we serve, not the other way around.

OSDE allegedly asks applicants political, loyalty based questions in pre-screening interview https://kfor.com/news/local/osde-allegedly-asks-applicants-political-loyalty-based-questions-in-pre-screening-interview/ 

Oklahoma Students Explain The Tulsa Race Massacre https://www.theonion.com/oklahoma-students-explain-the-tulsa-race-massacre-1850632258 

THE DEFT DIVE

Some information about Ryan Walters, the current Oklahoma State Superintendent of Public Instruction. Here are some facts I found from my web search:

• - Ryan Walters was born on May 23, 1985 in McAlester, Oklahoma².
• - He has a BA degree from Harding University and taught history at McAlester High School for eight years¹².
• - He was a finalist for the Oklahoma Teacher of the Year in 2016 and served on various state commissions related to education².
• - He was the executive director of Oklahoma Achieves and Every Kid Counts Oklahoma, two nonprofit organizations that advocated for school choice and parental involvement in education²³.
• - He was appointed by Governor Kevin Stitt as the Secretary of Education of Oklahoma in September 2020 and served until April 2023² .
• - He was elected as the State Superintendent of Public Instruction in November 2022, defeating Democrat Jena Nelson with 57% of the vote³⁴.
• - He supports school choice, funding students instead of systems, and fighting against "left-wing indoctrination" in schools³⁴.

Some of the controversies and scandals that have been reported since he was appointed are:

• - A federal audit found that the Bridge the Gap program that he oversaw as Secretary of Education had few safeguards to prevent fraud or abuse and that COVID-19 relief money was distributed through the program without proper oversight.
• - House Democrats called for his resignation over the audit findings, but Governor Stitt defended him and praised his work.
• - It was revealed that he remained the executive director of Every Kid Counts Oklahoma while serving as Secretary of Education and received a higher salary from the nonprofit than from the state. The nonprofit was funded by national groups that supported school privatization and charter school expansion, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest.

Bing, 7/13/2023

(1) Ryan Walters (politician) - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ryan_Walters_%28politician%29.

(2) State Superintendent of Public Instruction - Ryan Walters. https://sde.ok.gov/superintendent-public-instruction-ryan-walters.

(3) Ryan Walters elected as Oklahoma's next schools superintendent. https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/politics/elections/state/2022/11/09/ryan-walters-beat-jena-nelson-to-take-oklahoma-schools-superintendent/69611621007/.

(4) Election 2022: Ryan Walters wins race for State Superintendent. https://www.kjrh.com/news/local-news/election-2022-jena-nelson-ryan-walters-race-for-state-superintendent.

Some of his supporters are:

• - Governor Kevin Stitt, who appointed him as Secretary of Education and endorsed him for State Superintendent¹.
• - The Republican Party of Oklahoma, which nominated him as their candidate for State Superintendent and praised his victory².
• - The State Chamber of Oklahoma, which hired him as the executive director of Oklahoma Achieves and supported his school choice agenda³.
• - The Walton Family Foundation and other national groups that funded Every Kid Counts Oklahoma and advocated for school privatization and charter school expansion⁴.

Some of his critics are:

• - House Democrats, who called for his resignation over the federal audit of the Bridge the Gap program and accused him of mismanaging federal funds.
• - The Oklahoma Education Association, which represents public school teachers and opposed his stance on House Bill 1775, which bans teaching certain concepts about race and gender.
• - The Tulsa Race Massacre Centennial Commission, which condemned his comments about the Tulsa Race Massacre and said they were "inaccurate and insensitive".
• - Educators and parents who expressed frustration with his "dangerous" rhetoric and his promotion of a video that claimed public schools were indoctrinating students with leftist ideology.

Bing, 7/13/2023

(1) Ryan Walters hits back at critics, says his comments about Tulsa Race .... https://news.yahoo.com/ryan-walters-hits-back-critics-035500453.html.

(2) We fact-checked Ryan Walters on misspent federal money and more claims .... https://www.readfrontier.org/stories/we-fact-checked-ryan-walters-on-misspent-federal-money-and-more-claims/.

(3) Superintendent Ryan Walters resigns from pro-school choice nonprofit. https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/politics/government/2023/01/09/superintendent-ryan-walters-resigns-from-pro-school-choice-nonprofit/69791290007/.

(4) Educators, parents frustrated w/Superintendent Walters’ “dangerous .... https://www.kjrh.com/news/local-news/video-shown-by-ryan-walters-at-boe-meeting-garners-backlash.

DIANE RAVITCH: THE WONDER WOMAN OF PUBLIC EDUCATION

 

DIANE RAVITCH: THE WONDER WOMAN OF PUBLIC EDUCATION

Are you tired of boring education reform discussions? Look no further than Diane Ravitch! Who is she, you ask? Well, she's a historian of education, an educational policy analyst, and a former research professor at New York University's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. But that's not even the best part! She's also a hilarious, witty, and passionate defender of public education.

Why should you know, read her books, and follow her daily on her blog? Because she's the rock that opposes privatization and corporate education reform. Her major objection? Privatization and corporate reform. But don't let that fool you into thinking she's a boring old academic. She's a firecracker who knows how to make you laugh while also educating you on the importance of public education.

Ravitch has written many books on education, such as The Death and Life of the Great American School System, Reign of Error, and Slaying Goliath. But don't let those titles scare you away! They're not as boring as they sound. In fact, they're full of hilarious anecdotes and witty commentary that will keep you entertained while also educating you on the importance of public education.

Ravitch is widely regarded as one of the most influential voices in education today. She's received many awards and honors for her work, such as the Daniel Patrick Moynihan Prize, the John Dewey Award, and the NEA Friend of Education Award. But don't let those accolades fool you into thinking she's stuffy and boring. She's a straight shooter who knows how to tell it like it is.

So why is Ravitch so important to opposing corporate education reform and privatization of the public education system in America and the world? Because she's a vocal and influential critic of these policies and practices. She's used her expertise, experience, and evidence to expose the flaws and harms of the corporate reform agenda, which she argues is based on myths, lies, and hoaxes. And she does it all with a sense of humor that will have you laughing out loud.

Some of the main points that Ravitch has made against corporate education reform and privatization are:

• - Corporate reformers claim that public schools are failing and that the only way to fix them is to introduce market-based reforms, such as high-stakes testing, charter schools, vouchers, merit pay, and online learning. However, Ravitch shows that these claims are not supported by facts or research. She demonstrates that public schools are not failing, but rather have improved over time in terms of graduation rates, test scores, and achievement gaps. She also shows that the market-based reforms have not improved student outcomes, but rather have increased segregation, inequality, corruption, fraud, and waste.
• - Corporate reformers argue that public schools are obsolete and that they need to be reimagined by technology companies and philanthropists, such as Bill Gates and Eric Schmidt. However, Ravitch warns that these actors have ulterior motives and agendas that are not aligned with the public interest or the needs of students. She reveals how these actors have used their money and influence to impose their ideas and products on public schools without democratic input or accountability. She also exposes how these actors have collected and exploited students' personal data for their own benefit.
• - Corporate reformers assert that public schools are monopolies that stifle innovation and choice, and that they need to be disrupted by competition and privatization. However, Ravitch contends that public schools are not monopolies, but rather public goods that serve the common good. She argues that public schools are essential for democracy and social cohesion, and that they need to be supported and strengthened by public investment and collaboration. She also maintains that public schools are the most innovative and diverse institutions in the country, and that they offer more choices and opportunities than private alternatives.

Ravitch has been a leader and an inspiration for many public education advocates who have resisted corporate education reform and privatization. She's helped to create a network of grassroots movements that have challenged the corporate reformers at the local, state, and national levels. And she's done it all with a sense of humor that will have you laughing even while you're fighting for better education for all.

So if you're tired of boring education discussions and want to learn more about why public education is so important, check out Diane Ravitch's books and blog. You won't be disappointed!

Diane Ravitch's blog | A site to discuss better education for all https://dianeravitch.net/ 

THE DEFT DIVE

Diane Ravitch is a prominent figure in the field of education. She is a historian of education, an educational policy analyst, and a former research professor at New York University's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development¹. She has also served as a U.S. Assistant Secretary of Education under President George H. W. Bush and as a member of the National Assessment Governing Board under President Bill Clinton¹.

Ravitch has played various roles in education, ranging from a supporter of standards and accountability to a critic of high-stakes testing and privatization. She has written many books and articles on education, such as The Death and Life of the Great American School System, Reign of Error, and Slaying Goliath². She is also the founder and president of the Network for Public Education, a non-profit organization that advocates for public schools and opposes corporate reforms²³.

Ravitch is widely regarded as one of the most influential voices in education today. She has received many awards and honors for her work, such as the Daniel Patrick Moynihan Prize, the John Dewey Award, and the NEA Friend of Education Award². She also runs a popular blog where she posts daily about current issues and trends in education². She is a passionate defender of public education and a fierce opponent of those who seek to undermine it..

Bing, 7/12/2023

(1) Diane Ravitch - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diane_Ravitch.

(2) Diane Ravitch – Research Professor of Education at New York University .... https://dianeravitch.com/.

(3) About Diane - Diane Ravitch. https://dianeravitch.com/about-diane/.

(4) Getty Images. https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/news-photo/former-u-s-assistant-secretary-of-education-diane-ravitch-news-photo/182961878.

Diane Ravitch has been so important to opposing corporate education reform and privatization of the public education system in America and the world because she has been a vocal and influential critic of these policies and practices. She has used her expertise, experience, and evidence to expose the flaws and harms of the corporate reform agenda, which she argues is based on myths, lies, and hoaxes. She has also offered alternative solutions and visions for improving public education based on democratic principles, social justice, and professional standards¹².

Some of the main points that Ravitch has made against corporate education reform and privatization are:

• - Corporate reformers claim that public schools are failing and that the only way to fix them is to introduce market-based reforms, such as high-stakes testing, charter schools, vouchers, merit pay, and online learning. However, Ravitch shows that these claims are not supported by facts or research. She demonstrates that public schools are not failing, but rather have improved over time in terms of graduation rates, test scores, and achievement gaps. She also shows that the market-based reforms have not improved student outcomes, but rather have increased segregation, inequality, corruption, fraud, and waste¹².
• - Corporate reformers argue that public schools are obsolete and that they need to be reimagined by technology companies and philanthropists, such as Bill Gates and Eric Schmidt. However, Ravitch warns that these actors have ulterior motives and agendas that are not aligned with the public interest or the needs of students. She reveals how these actors have used their money and influence to impose their ideas and products on public schools without democratic input or accountability. She also exposes how these actors have collected and exploited students' personal data for their own benefit²³.
• - Corporate reformers assert that public schools are monopolies that stifle innovation and choice, and that they need to be disrupted by competition and privatization. However, Ravitch contends that public schools are not monopolies, but rather public goods that serve the common good. She argues that public schools are essential for democracy and social cohesion, and that they need to be supported and strengthened by public investment and collaboration. She also maintains that public schools are the most innovative and diverse institutions in the country, and that they offer more choices and opportunities than private alternatives¹²⁴.
• - Privatization and corporate education reform are based on false assumptions and misleading data that do not reflect the reality and complexity of public education. They ignore the effects of poverty, inequality, and social factors on student achievement and well-being. They also disregard the evidence and research that show that their policies and practices are ineffective, harmful, or counterproductive .
• - Privatization and corporate education reform are driven by profit motives and ideological agendas that are not aligned with the public interest or the needs of students. They seek to undermine public education as a public good and a democratic right, and to replace it with a market-based system that favors private interests and elites. They also exploit students' personal data and information for their own benefit, without regard for privacy, security, or ethics .
• - Privatization and corporate education reform are harmful to students, teachers, schools, and communities. They create a culture of testing, competition, and punishment that narrows the curriculum, stifles creativity, and demoralizes teachers. They also increase segregation, inequality, and instability in the education system, by diverting resources and opportunities away from public schools and towards private alternatives that are unaccountable, unregulated, or fraudulent  .

Ravitch has been a leader and an inspiration for many public education advocates who have resisted corporate education reform and privatization. She has helped to create a network of grassroots movements that have challenged the corporate reformers at the local, state, and national levels. She has also given voice to the students, teachers, parents, and communities who have been marginalized and harmed by the corporate reform agenda². She has been a slayer of Goliath in the fight to save America's public schools².

Bing, 7/12/2023

(1) 'Reign of Error': The Context for Corporate Education Reform. https://www.commondreams.org/views/2013/09/18/reign-error-context-corporate-education-reform.

(2) Diane Ravitch on Pandemic School Privatization - FAIR. https://fair.org/home/diane-ravitch-on-pandemic-school-privatization/.

(3) ‘Slaying Goliath’: Diane Ravitch argues public education advocates have .... https://www.washingtonpost.com/education/2020/01/21/slaying-goliath-diane-ravitch-argues-new-book-that-public-education-advocates-have-beat-back-efforts-privatize-schools/.

(4) Diane Ravitch on Real Education Reform - The Century Foundation. https://tcf.org/content/commentary/diane-ravitch-on-real-education-reform/.

(5) undefined. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0385350880?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeA.

BOOKS SHE HAS WRITTEN: 

• - **Slaying Goliath: The Passionate Resistance to Privatization and the Fight to Save America's Public Schools** (2020): This book is a celebration of the grassroots movement that has emerged to defend public education from the corporate reformers who seek to undermine it. Ravitch tells the stories of teachers, parents, students, and activists who have fought back against the billionaires, politicians, and ideologues who have tried to impose their agenda of high-stakes testing, charter schools, vouchers, and online learning. She argues that public schools are essential for democracy and social justice, and that they can be improved by investing in them, not by privatizing them².
• - **Reign of Error: The Hoax of the Privatization Movement and the Danger to America's Public Schools** (2013): This book is a powerful critique of the myths and lies that have been used to justify the assault on public education. Ravitch exposes the false claims of the reformers, such as that test scores are declining, that poverty is irrelevant, that charter schools are superior, and that teachers are the main problem. She also offers a positive vision for improving public schools based on evidence, experience, and common sense².
• - **The Death and Life of the Great American School System: How Testing and Choice Are Undermining Education** (2010): This book is a personal and professional memoir of Ravitch's journey from being a supporter of standards and accountability to becoming a critic of the same policies. She explains how she came to realize that the reforms she once advocated were harming students, teachers, and schools. She also analyzes the flaws and failures of the current reform movement, such as its obsession with test scores, its disregard for curriculum, its promotion of choice and competition, and its reliance on market forces².
• - **The Language Police: How Pressure Groups Restrict What Students Learn** (2003): This book is a shocking expose of how censorship and political correctness have distorted the content and quality of textbooks and tests. Ravitch reveals how various interest groups have influenced what students can read, write, and think about in school. She shows how these groups have imposed their own agendas and biases on educational materials, resulting in bland, inaccurate, and misleading texts that fail to educate students².
• - **Left Back: A Century of Failed School Reforms** (2000): This book is a comprehensive history of American education in the twentieth century. Ravitch traces the origins and consequences of the major debates and controversies that have shaped educational policy and practice. She examines how different ideologies and movements have influenced the goals and methods of schooling, such as progressivism, social efficiency, essentialism, multiculturalism, standards, and choice. She also evaluates the outcomes and impacts of these reforms on student achievement and social equity².

She is a very prolific and influential author who has contributed a lot to the field of education. If you are interested in reading any of her books, you can find them on [Amazon](^3^) or [Goodreads](^2^). 😊

Bing, 7/12/2023

(1) Books by Diane Ravitch (Author of The Death and Life of the Great .... https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/58511.Diane_Ravitch.

(2) Amazon.com: Diane Ravitch: books, biography, latest update. https://www.amazon.com/stores/Diane%20Ravitch/author/B001ILMA4E.

(3) Books by Diane Ravitch (Author of The Death and Life of the Great .... https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/58511.Diane_Ravitch.

(4) Books / Diane Ravitch. https://bing.com/search?q=Diane+Ravitch+books.

(5) Diane Ravitch | The New York Review of Books. https://www.nybooks.com/contributors/diane-ravitch/.

(6) The Dark History of School Choice | Diane Ravitch. https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2021/01/14/the-dark-history-of-school-choice/.

(7) About Diane - Diane Ravitch. https://dianeravitch.com/about-diane/.

Diane Ravitch has written 51 books on education and related topics². Here is a list of all her books by year, from the most recent to the oldest:

• - Slaying Goliath: The Passionate Resistance to Privatization and the Fight to Save America's Public Schools (2020)
• - The Wisdom and Wit of Diane Ravitch (2019)
• - The Ravitch Reader: Selected Writings on Education (2019)
• - EdSpeak and Doubletalk: A Glossary to Decipher Hypocrisy and Save Public Schooling (2019, co-authored with Nancy E. Bailey)
• - Reign of Error: The Hoax of the Privatization Movement and the Danger to America's Public Schools (2013)
• - The Death and Life of the Great American School System: How Testing and Choice Are Undermining Education (2010)
• - The English Reader: What Every Literate Person Needs to Know (2006, co-edited with Michael Ravitch)
• - The Language Police: How Pressure Groups Restrict What Students Learn (2003)
• - Left Back: A Century of Failed School Reforms (2000)
• - National Standards in American Education: A Citizen's Guide (1995, revised edition 1996)
• - What Do Our 17-Year-Olds Know? A Report on the First National Assessment of History and Literature (1987, co-authored with Chester E. Finn Jr.)
• - The Troubled Crusade: American Education, 1945-1980 (1983)
• - The Revisionists Revised: A Critique of the Radical Attack on the Schools (1978)
• - The Great School Wars: A History of the New York City Public Schools (1974, revised edition 2000)

Bing, 7/12/2023

(1) Diane Ravitch (Author of The Death and Life of the Great American .... https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/58511.Diane_Ravitch.

(2) Diane Ravitch (Author of The Death and Life of the Great American .... https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/58511.Diane_Ravitch.

(3) About Diane - Diane Ravitch. https://dianeravitch.com/about-diane/.

(4) Books by Diane Ravitch (Author of The Death and Life of the Great .... https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/58511.Diane_Ravitch.

(5) Diane Ravitch | Hopkins Press. https://press.jhu.edu/books/authors/diane-ravitch.

(6) Articles - Diane Ravitch. https://dianeravitch.com/articles/.

(7) undefined. https://dianeravitch.net/.

AI AND CHATGPT IN THE CLASSROOM: DANGER DANGER WILL ROBINSON

AI AND CHATGPT IN THE CLASSROOM

DANGER DANGER WILL ROBINSON

As we enter a new era of education, it's important to consider the potential dangers of AI in the classroom. Sure, it sounds cool to have a robot teacher who never gets tired or loses patience, but what happens when that robot becomes self-aware and decides to take over the world? Okay, maybe that's a bit extreme, but there are still some serious concerns to address.

First and foremost, we need to make sure our students are AI literate. And no, that doesn't mean they need to be able to program a robot from scratch. It means they need to understand the basics of how AI works and how it affects their lives. We don't want our students thinking that Siri is some kind of magical genie who lives inside their phone and grants wishes.

We also need to promote AI ethics and values. Just because a machine can do something doesn't mean it should. We need to teach our students to reflect on the ethical and social implications of AI, such as privacy, fairness, accountability, and human dignity. We don't want our students developing a sense of moral relativism where anything goes as long as it's done by a computer.

Of course, protecting student data and privacy is also a top priority. We don't want our students' personal information falling into the wrong hands. And let's face it, sometimes even the right hands can be a little sketchy. We need to make sure the AI systems we use in the classroom are compliant with data protection laws and regulations, and that they respect the rights and interests of students.

But perhaps most importantly, we need to monitor and report any potential risks or harms caused by AI systems. We don't want our students falling victim to cyberattacks, discrimination, bias, or misinformation. And if something does go wrong, we need to seek guidance and support from experts or authorities. Because let's be real, none of us are equipped to handle a rogue AI on our own.

So what can we do to prepare ourselves for this brave new world of AI in education? Luckily, the Big Education Ape blog has provided us with some great resources for teachers. The articles "What Every Teacher Needs to Know About ChatGPT Before the New School Year" is a must-read for anyone looking to incorporate AI into their curriculum. And their guide "CHATGPT: A Guide for Students and Teachers Using ChatGPT in the Classroom" is a great resource for anyone looking to get started with AI chatbots.

But let's not forget about the bigger picture here. AI safety and alignment are important topics for the future of artificial intelligence. We need to make sure we're building safe AI systems that don't harm humans or the environment. And we need to ensure that these systems are developed and deployed in a way that aligns with human values and goals.

Of course, there are some challenges that come with this. How do we instill complex values in AI systems that may not share our moral intuitions or preferences? How do we prevent emergent AI behaviors that may be harmful or undesirable? And how do we balance the trade-offs between efficiency, fairness, privacy, and accountability in AI systems?

Thankfully, there are many researchers and organizations working on these problems. And they're using some pretty cool methods like direct normativity, indirect normativity, cooperative inverse reinforcement learning, iterated amplification, and more. I have no idea what any of those mean, but they sound impressive.

So what are some of the dangers of AI? Well, there's the invasion of personal data, the risk of cyberattack, discrimination and bias, opacity and lack of transparency, accountability of AI-driven decisions, and replacement of jobs. But don't worry, there are plenty of groups working on AI safety and alignment. There are strategy groups, governance groups, technical groups, and movement building groups.

And there are some pretty awesome organizations doing this work too. The Future of Humanity Institute? The Center for Human-Compatible AI? The Partnership on AI? These sound like superhero teams! And let's not forget about DeepMind or the Center for AI Safety. These guys are like the Avengers of AI.

So while there are certainly some concerns when it comes to AI in education, there's also a lot of potential for good. We just need to make sure we're doing it right. And if all else fails, we can always call in Iron Man to save the day.

THE DEFT DIVE

Big Education Ape: WHAT EVERY TEACHER NEEDS TO KNOW ABOUT CHATGPT BEFORE THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/what-every-teacher-needs-to-know-about.html 

Big Education Ape: CHATGPT: A GUIDE FOR STUDENTS AND TEACHER USING CHATGPT IN THE CLASSROOM https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/chatgpt-guide-for-students-and-teacher.html 

Educators can help keep AI safe for students by:

• - **Teaching AI literacy and skills**: Educators can help students understand the basics of AI, how it works, and how it affects their lives. They can also help students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for using and creating AI systems responsibly¹².
• - **Promoting AI ethics and values**: Educators can help students reflect on the ethical and social implications of AI, such as privacy, fairness, accountability, and human dignity. They can also help students develop a sense of civic responsibility and moral agency when interacting with or developing AI systems¹².
• - **Protecting student data and privacy**: Educators can help students protect their personal data and privacy when using AI-enabled devices or platforms. They can also ensure that the AI systems they use in the classroom are compliant with data protection laws and regulations, and that they respect the rights and interests of students¹³.
• - **Monitoring and reporting AI risks and harms**: Educators can help students identify and report any potential risks or harms caused by AI systems, such as cyberattacks, discrimination, bias, or misinformation. They can also seek guidance and support from experts or authorities when dealing with AI-related issues or incidents¹³.

Bing, 7/12/2023

(1) Our children are growing up with AI: what you need to know. https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2022/01/artificial-intelligence-children-technology/.

(2) Stanford AI Safety. http://aisafety.stanford.edu/.

(3) AI Detection In Schools: Key To Student Safety. https://elearningindustry.com/ai-detection-in-schools-key-to-student-safety.

(4) Berkeley AI Safety Student Initiative. https://berkeleyaisafety.com/.

What is 'AI alignment'? Silicon Valley's favourite way to think about AI safety misses the real issues https://theconversation.com/what-is-ai-alignment-silicon-valleys-favourite-way-to-think-about-ai-safety-misses-the-real-issues-209330?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=bylinetwitterbutton via @ConversationEDU 

AI Alignment Can’t be “Solved” as OpenAI Says - The Hindu https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/ai-alignment-cant-be-solved-as-openai-says/article67063877.ece 

AI safety and AI alignment are important topics for the future of artificial intelligence. AI safety is the study of building safe AI systems that do not harm humans or the environment. AI alignment is a subfield of AI safety that focuses on ensuring that AI systems are developed and deployed in a way that aligns with human values and goals. 

Some of the challenges in AI safety and alignment include:

• - How to instill complex values in AI systems that may not share our moral intuitions or preferences
• - How to develop honest and transparent AI systems that can be audited and interpreted by humans
• - How to prevent emergent AI behaviors that may be harmful or undesirable, such as power-seeking, manipulation, or deception
• - How to achieve consistency between the scientific model, the application solution, and the stakeholder needs
• - How to deal with uncertainty, ambiguity, and ethical dilemmas in AI decision-making
• - How to balance the trade-offs between efficiency, fairness, privacy, and accountability in AI systems

There are many researchers and organizations working on these problems, such as OpenAI, MIT CISR, the Partnership on AI, and the United Nations. They use various technical and philosophical approaches, such as direct normativity, indirect normativity, cooperative inverse reinforcement learning, iterated amplification, and more²³⁴⁵. 

AI safety and alignment are not only academic issues, but also practical ones that affect our society and economy. They require collaboration and coordination among multiple stakeholders, such as developers, users, regulators, policymakers, and the public. By addressing these issues, we can ensure that AI systems are beneficial for humanity and the planet.🌎

Bing, 7/12/2023

(1) What is 'AI alignment'? Silicon Valley's favourite way to think about .... https://theconversation.com/what-is-ai-alignment-silicon-valleys-favourite-way-to-think-about-ai-safety-misses-the-real-issues-209330.

(2) AI Alignment: A New Management Paradigm | MIT CISR. https://cisr.mit.edu/publication/2020_1101_AI-Alignment_WixomSomehGregory.

(3) AI alignment - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AI_alignment.

(4) AI safety - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AI_safety.

(5) From Risk To Reward: The Role Of AI Alignment In Shaping A Positive Future. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/from-risk-reward-role-ai-alignment-shaping-positive.

Some of the dangers of AI are:

• - **Invasion of personal data**: AI systems can collect and analyze vast amounts of personal data without the explicit consent of individuals¹.
• - **Risk of cyberattack**: AI systems, like any other technology, can be vulnerable to cyberattacks that could compromise their security or functionality¹.
• - **Discrimination and bias**: AI systems can reflect or amplify the biases and prejudices of their creators or data sources, leading to unfair or harmful outcomes for some groups or individuals¹².
• - **Opacity and lack of transparency**: AI systems can be difficult to understand or explain, especially when they use complex algorithms or deep learning methods. This can make it hard to hold them accountable or to correct their errors¹².
• - **Accountability of AI-driven decisions**: AI systems can make decisions that affect human lives or rights, but it can be unclear who is responsible or liable for the outcomes or errors. This can create legal and ethical challenges¹².
• - **Replacement of jobs**: AI-powered automation can displace workers and reduce employment opportunities in various sectors. This can have social and economic impacts¹².

Some of the groups working on AI safety and alignment are:

• - **Strategy**: These groups focus on the long-term vision and goals of AI development, as well as the potential scenarios and risks of superintelligent AI. They try to anticipate and plan for the possible impacts of AI on humanity and the world⁷⁸.
• - **Governance**: These groups focus on the regulation and oversight of AI systems, as well as the norms and standards that guide their use. They try to ensure that AI is developed and deployed in a safe, ethical, and beneficial way⁷⁸.
• - **Technical**: These groups focus on the design and implementation of AI systems, as well as the methods and tools that enable their safety and alignment. They try to solve the technical challenges and problems that arise in building and testing AI systems⁷⁸.
• - **Movement Building**: These groups focus on the education and engagement of the public and stakeholders on AI issues, as well as the advocacy and outreach for AI safety and alignment. They try to raise awareness and support for the importance and urgency of AI safety and alignment⁷⁸.

Some examples of organizations that belong to these groups are:

• - Strategy: Future of Humanity Institute, Center for Human-Compatible AI, Center for the Study of Existential Risk
• - Governance: Partnership on AI, Center for a New American Security, OpenAI
• - Technical: DeepMind, Center for AI Safety, Alignment Research Center
• - Movement Building: Future of Life Institute, 80,000 Hours, Effective Altruism

Bing, 7/12/2023

(1) Dangers of Artificial Intelligence: 6 Risks and Concerns of AI - Flowclass. https://flowclass.io/marketing/dangers-of-artificial-intelligence/.

(2) Here's Why AI May Be Extremely Dangerous--Whether It's Conscious or Not .... https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/heres-why-ai-may-be-extremely-dangerous-whether-its-conscious-or-not/.

(3) The AI Safety community has four main work groups, Strategy ... - LessWrong. https://www.lesswrong.com/posts/zCYChCmnxsowBsMri/the-ai-safety-community-has-four-main-work-groups-strategy.

(4) AI bias and AI safety teams are divided on artificial intelligence - Vox. https://www.vox.com/future-perfect/2022/8/10/23298108/ai-dangers-ethics-alignment-present-future-risk.

(5) What is AI, is it dangerous and what jobs are at risk? - BBC. https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-65855333.

(6) SQ10. What are the most pressing dangers of AI?. https://ai100.stanford.edu/2021-report/standing-questions-and-responses/sq10-what-are-most-pressing-dangers-ai.

(7) New report assesses progress and risks of artificial intelligence. https://www.brown.edu/news/2021-09-16/ai100.

(8) The 15 Biggest Risks Of Artificial Intelligence - Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2023/06/02/the-15-biggest-risks-of-artificial-intelligence/.

(9) Center for AI Safety (CAIS). https://www.safe.ai/.

(10) Part 1: The AI Safety community has four main work groups, Strategy .... https://forum.effectivealtruism.org/posts/5iQoR8mhEpvRT43jv/part-1-the-ai-safety-community-has-four-main-work-groups.

THE SCIENCE OF READING: THE NEWEST ADDITION TO COMMON CORE STANDARDS AND THE STANDARDIZATION OF AMERICAN EDUCATION

THE SCIENCE OF READING

THE NEWEST ADDITION TO COMMON CORE STANDARDS AND THE STANDARDIZATION OF AMERICAN EDUCATION

Ah, standardization in education. It's like the boring cousin at family reunions that no one really wants to talk to, but they're always there, lurking in the background. And now, we have a new addition to the family: The Science of Reading.

Yes, you read that right. The Science of Reading is the newest addition to the Common Core Standards, which were mandated by No Child Left Behind and Common Core initiatives. These standards were put in place to ensure that all children learn alike, so they can be tested by standardized tests. Because, you know, that's the best way to tell if a child has learned the standards. It's like putting lipstick on a pig - it's still a pig.

But why do billionaires like standardization over learning? Well, it's simple. Standardization means everyone is on the same page, which makes it easier to compare and evaluate student performance and school quality across different contexts and levels. Plus, it gives external actors, such as governments and corporations, more influence and power over educational decisions and practices. And who doesn't love a little bit of power?

The problem with standardization is that it limits the diversity and creativity of teaching and learning. It imposes a one-size-fits-all approach that may not suit the needs, interests, and abilities of different students, teachers, and communities. It creates a culture of testing and accountability that may reduce the intrinsic motivation, engagement, and enjoyment of students and teachers. And it neglects or marginalizes the importance of other aspects of education that are not easily measured or standardized, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, social-emotional skills, or cultural competence.

Enter The Science of Reading. It's a collection of research from multiple fields of study using methods that confirm and disconfirm theories on how children best learn to read. It's teaching based on the 5 Big Ideas: Phonemic Awareness, Phonics, Fluency, Vocabulary, and Comprehension. And it's ever-evolving as new research and evidence emerge over time.

But just like any new addition to the family, The Science of Reading is controversial. It's been used to fuel a long-running debate over the best way to teach reading - phonics or whole language. Supporters of phonics instruction argue that it's necessary for struggling readers, while opponents argue that it ignores the importance of language, identity, culture, and sociocultural contexts in reading development.

So who are the supporters and opponents of this method? Well, it's hard to say because different people may define it differently and may agree or disagree with some aspects of it. But generally speaking, supporters of The Science of Reading emphasize the importance of phonics instruction and cite research that shows the benefits of systematic and explicit phonics teaching for word recognition and reading comprehension. Opponents argue for more holistic and contextualized approaches to literacy that consider the complexity and diversity of reading development and instruction.

And what about those third-grade retention laws? These are state policies that require students to demonstrate adequate reading proficiency by the end of third grade or face being held back for another year. The Science of Reading may influence these laws by providing a rationale for phonics-based instruction and shaping the criteria and assessments used to determine reading proficiency. But the effects of these laws on students' academic and social-emotional development are still unclear.

In conclusion, standardization in education is like that boring cousin at family reunions - always there, always lurking in the background. And now we have a new addition to the family - The Science of Reading. Whether you're a supporter or an opponent, one thing is clear: education is complex and diverse, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to teaching and learning. So let's embrace the diversity and creativity of education and stop putting lipstick on that pig.

New Report Highlights States that Are at the Vanguard of the Reading Revolution – The 74 https://www.the74million.org/article/new-report-highlights-states-that-are-at-the-vanguard-of-the-reading-revolution/

THE DEFT DIVE

Standardized standards and testing are two related concepts that have important implications for education. However, they also have some benefits and drawbacks that need to be considered.

What are standardized standards and testing?

Standardized standards are a set of academic expectations for what students should know and be able to do in each grade level and subject area. Standardized standards are usually developed by state or national authorities, such as departments of education or expert panels, and are intended to ensure consistency, quality and equity in education across different schools and districts.

Standardized testing is a form of assessment that requires all students to answer the same questions or a selection of questions from a common bank of questions, and that is scored in a consistent manner. Standardized testing is usually aligned with standardized standards, and is intended to measure student achievement, progress and readiness for college or career.

Why are standardized standards and testing important?

Standardized standards and testing can have some important benefits for education, such as:

• - They can provide a clear and common framework for curriculum, instruction and assessment that guides teachers, students and parents in what to teach, learn and expect.
• - They can facilitate the comparison and evaluation of student performance and school quality across different contexts and levels, enabling the identification of strengths, weaknesses and gaps.
• - They can support the improvement of educational outcomes and equity by providing feedback, guidance and resources for teachers, students and schools to enhance their practices and address their needs.
• - They can foster collaboration and innovation among educators, researchers, policymakers and other stakeholders by sharing best practices, evidence and experiences.

What are the challenges of standardized standards and testing?

Standardized standards and testing can also have some challenges for education, such as:

• - They can limit the diversity and creativity of teaching and learning by imposing a one-size-fits-all approach that may not suit the needs, interests and abilities of different students, teachers and communities.
• - They can create a culture of testing and accountability that may reduce the intrinsic motivation, engagement and enjoyment of students and teachers, and lead to negative consequences such as stress, anxiety, cheating or dropout.
• - They can neglect or marginalize the importance of other aspects of education that are not easily measured or standardized, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, social-emotional skills or cultural competence.
• - They can increase the influence and power of external actors, such as governments, corporations or organizations, over the educational decisions and practices of local educators, schools and districts.

Bing, 7/12/2023

(1) Standardized Test Definition - The Glossary of Education Reform. https://www.edglossary.org/standardized-test/.

(2) What you need to know about standardized testing. https://www.washingtonpost.com/education/2021/02/01/need-to-know-about-standardized-testing/.

(3) Effects of Standardized Testing on Students & Teachers | American .... https://soeonline.american.edu/blog/effects-of-standardized-testing/.

(4) Standardized Testing Pros and Cons - Does It Improve Education?. https://standardizedtests.procon.org/.

(5) 20 Standardized Tests Pros And Cons (2023) - Helpful Professor. https://helpfulprofessor.com/standardized-test-pros-cons/.

(6) Standardized test - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standardized_test.

(7) Getty Images. https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/photo/exam-royalty-free-image/476463411.

Common Core and No Child Left Behind are two different but related initiatives that aim to improve the quality and equity of education in the United States. However, they have different origins, goals, approaches and impacts on students, teachers and schools.

What is Common Core?

Common Core is a set of academic standards for math and English language arts that were developed by a group of state leaders, educators and experts in 2010. The Common Core aims to ensure that all students are prepared for college and career success by the end of high school. The Common Core defines the knowledge and skills that students should have at each grade level, but does not prescribe how to teach or assess them. States can choose whether to adopt the Common Core or not, and can also add their own standards or revisions. As of 2021, 41 states, the District of Columbia, four territories and the Department of Defense Education Activity have adopted the Common Core.

What is No Child Left Behind?

No Child Left Behind (NCLB) is a federal law that was passed in 2001 and reauthorized in 2015 as the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). NCLB/ESSA aims to close the achievement gap between different groups of students and hold schools accountable for student performance. NCLB/ESSA requires states to set academic standards, test students annually in grades 3-8 and once in high school, report test results by student subgroups, identify low-performing schools and intervene to improve them. States have some flexibility in how they implement NCLB/ESSA, but they also face consequences for not meeting federal requirements.

How do Common Core and No Child Left Behind work together?

Common Core and No Child Left Behind work together in several ways:

• - Common Core began, in part, as a response to NCLB, which revealed wide variation and inconsistency among state standards and expectations for student achievement.
• - Common Core supports the goal of NCLB/ESSA to ensure that all students are college and career ready by providing clearer and more rigorous standards for math and English language arts.
• - Common Core influences the design and content of the state tests that are used to measure student progress and school performance under NCLB/ESSA.
• - Common Core provides a common framework for states to collaborate and share best practices, resources and innovations in teaching and learning.

However, Common Core and No Child Left Behind also have some challenges and controversies:

• - Common Core has faced criticism and opposition from some parents, educators, policymakers and activists who question its quality, validity, appropriateness or impact on curriculum, instruction or assessment.
• - Common Core has also been associated with high-stakes testing, accountability measures and teacher evaluation systems that may have negative effects on student motivation, teacher autonomy or instructional quality.
• - NCLB/ESSA has faced criticism and opposition from some parents, educators, policymakers and activists who question its effectiveness, fairness, feasibility or impact on equity, diversity or innovation.
• - NCLB/ESSA has also been associated with narrowing the curriculum, teaching to the test or gaming the system to meet federal requirements or avoid sanctions.

Bing, 7/12/2023

(1) The Common Core FAQ : NPR Ed : NPR. https://www.npr.org/sections/ed/2014/05/27/307755798/the-common-core-faq.

(2) No Child Left Behind vs. Common Core - FindLaw. https://www.findlaw.com/education/curriculum-standards-school-funding/no-child-left-behind-vs-common-core.html.

(3) 7 Major Differences between No Child Left Behind & Common Core. https://pioneerinstitute.org/blog/7-major-differences-between-no-child-left-behind-and-common-corerace-to-the-top/.

(4) Common Core Vs. No Child Left Behind - 1158 Words | Cram. https://www.cram.com/essay/Common-Core-Vs-No-Child-Left-Behind/FCJWW5PLMXB.

The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) are a set of academic standards for math and English language arts that were developed by a group of state leaders, educators and experts in 2010. The CCSS aim to ensure that all students are prepared for college and career success by the end of high school. However, some states have revised or replaced the CCSS over time, either to address local feedback, concerns or preferences, or to distance themselves from the national initiative.

Major revisions made by states to Common Core standards

Some of the major revisions made by states to Common Core standards are:

• - Adding or deleting content: Some states have added or deleted content from the CCSS to reflect their own priorities, expectations or values. For example, some states have added more emphasis on cursive writing, grammar, literature, financial literacy, state history or culture.
• - Rearranging or reorganizing content: Some states have rearranged or reorganized content from the CCSS to suit their own grade-level progression, scope and sequence or instructional approach. For example, some states have moved some standards to different grade levels, clustered some standards together or split some standards apart.
• - Changing terminology or language: Some states have changed terminology or language from the CCSS to avoid confusion, controversy or association with the national initiative. For example, some states have replaced the term "Common Core" with their own name for the standards, such as "College and Career Ready Standards" or "Academic Standards".
• - Aligning with other standards or frameworks: Some states have aligned their standards with other standards or frameworks that they use or value, such as state-specific standards for other subjects, national standards for science or social studies, or international benchmarks for education.

Areas that have changed

Some of the areas that have changed in the revised or replaced standards are:

• - Phonics and word recognition: Some states have changed the way they teach and assess phonics and word recognition skills, such as by introducing different phonetic patterns, spelling rules or decoding strategies.
• - Text complexity and analysis: Some states have changed the way they measure and evaluate text complexity and analysis skills, such as by using different formulas, criteria or rubrics to determine the appropriate level and quality of texts for students.
• - Writing genres and modes: Some states have changed the way they define and teach writing genres and modes, such as by adding or removing specific types of writing, such as narrative, informative/explanatory, opinion/argumentative or research.
• - Mathematical practices and content: Some states have changed the way they emphasize and integrate mathematical practices and content, such as by adding or removing specific mathematical domains, topics or skills, such as geometry, algebra, fractions or functions.

Bing, 7/12/2023

(1) Common Core implementation by state - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_Core_implementation_by_state.

(2) Common Core State Standards - Understood. https://www.understood.org/en/articles/common-core-state-standards-what-you-need-to-know.

(3) Common Core States [Updated May 2023] - World Population Review. https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/common-core-states.

(4) Common Core State Standards Initiative - Ballotpedia. https://ballotpedia.org/Common_Core_State_Standards_Initiative.

(5) Common Core - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_Core.

K12 education standards in the United States vary by state, but most states have adopted or adapted the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for math and English language arts. The CCSS are a set of academic expectations for what students should know and be able to do in each grade level, from kindergarten to 12th grade. The CCSS were developed by a group of state leaders, educators and experts in 2010 with the goal of ensuring that all students are prepared for college and career success.

Which states follow the national standards?

There is no official national standard for K12 education in the United States, but the CCSS are the closest approximation. As of 2021, 41 states, the District of Columbia, four territories and the Department of Defense Education Activity have adopted the CCSS and are working toward implementation. One state—Minnesota—uses only the CCSS for English language arts. The other states either never adopted the CCSS, or adopted it but are rewriting or replacing it.

The following table shows the current status of CCSS adoption by state, according to EdWeek:

State | Status |

Alabama | Adopted |

Alaska | Did not adopt |

Arizona | Adopted with revisions |

Arkansas | Adopted with revisions |

California | Adopted |

Colorado | Adopted with additions |

Connecticut | Adopted |

Delaware | Adopted |

District of Columbia | Adopted |

Florida | Adopted with revisions |

Georgia | Adopted with revisions |

Hawaii | Adopted |

Idaho | Adopted with revisions |

Illinois | Adopted |

Indiana | Replaced |

Iowa | Adopted with additions |

Kansas | Adopted |

Kentucky | Adopted with revisions |

Louisiana | Adopted with revisions |

 Maine | Adopted |

Maryland | Adopted |

Massachusetts | Adopted with additions |

Michigan | Adopted with revisions |

Minnesota | ELA only |

Mississippi | Adopted with revisions |

Missouri | Replaced |

Montana | Adopted with additions |

Nebraska | Did not adopt |

Nevada | Adopted with revisions |

New Hampshire | Adopted with additions |

New Jersey | Adopted with revisions |

New Mexico | Adopted with additions |

New York | Adopted with revisions |

North Carolina | Adopted with revisions |

North Dakota | Replaced |

Ohio | Adopted with revisions |

Oklahoma | Replaced |

Oregon | Adopted with additions |

Pennsylvania | Replaced |

Rhode Island | Adopted |

South Carolina | Replaced |

South Dakota | Replaced |

Tennessee | Replaced |

Texas | Did not adopt |

Utah | Replaced |

Vermont | Adopted with additions|

Virginia | Did not adopt|

Washington | Adopted|

West Virginia Adopted with revisions|

< Wisconsin Adopted >

< Wyoming Adopted >

Which states are the leaders in following the national standards?

There is no definitive answer to which states are the leaders in following the national standards, as different states may have different levels of implementation, quality and outcomes. However, some possible indicators of leadership are:

• - The degree of alignment between the state standards and the CCSS
• - The quality and rigor of the state assessments and accountability systems
• - The availability and effectiveness of professional development and resources for teachers and schools
• - The level of stakeholder engagement and support for the standards
• - The performance and progress of students on national and international tests

Based on these indicators, some examples of states that have shown leadership in following the national standards are:

• - California: California has adopted the CCSS without major changes and has developed its own assessments aligned to the standards. The state has also invested in professional development, instructional materials and technology to support implementation. California has also engaged parents, educators and communities in understanding and supporting the standards.
• - Massachusetts: Massachusetts has adopted the CCSS with some additions and has maintained its own high-quality assessments that incorporate items from other consortia. The state has also provided extensive professional development, guidance and resources for teachers and schools. Massachusetts has also consistently performed well on national and international tests.
• - Kentucky: Kentucky was one of the first states to adopt the CCSS and has revised its standards over time to reflect feedback and evidence. The state has also developed its own assessments aligned to the standards and has implemented a comprehensive accountability system. Kentucky has also involved teachers, parents and students in promoting and improving the standards.

Which states have developed their own state standards that are similar to Common Core standards?

Some states have developed their own state standards that are similar to Common Core standards, either by revising or replacing the CCSS. These states may have made minor or major changes to the content, organization or terminology of the standards, but still aim to align with the college and career readiness expectations of the CCSS. Some examples of these states are:

• - Indiana: Indiana replaced the CCSS with its own College and Career Ready Standards in 2014. The new standards are similar to the CCSS in many ways, but also include some differences, such as more emphasis on cursive writing, grammar and literature.
• - Oklahoma: Oklahoma replaced the CCSS with its own Oklahoma Academic Standards in 2016. The new standards are based on the CCSS, but also incorporate input from local educators, experts and stakeholders. The new standards also include some unique features, such as a focus on financial literacy, Oklahoma history and Native American culture.
• - Utah: Utah replaced the CCSS with its own Utah Core Standards in 2016. The new standards are largely aligned to the CCSS, but also reflect some modifications, such as more flexibility for local districts, more attention to Utah-specific topics and more integration of technology.

Bing, 7/12/2023

(1) Common Core State Standards and Assessments in K–12 Education. https://www.nassp.org/learn-the-issues/college-and-career-ready-standards/common-core-state-standards-and-assessments-in-k-12-education/.

(2) Common Core State Standards - Understood. https://www.understood.org/en/articles/common-core-state-standards-what-you-need-to-know.

(3) Curriculum: National and State Standards | Education World. https://www.educationworld.com/standards/.

(4) Kindergarten in the United States | K12 Academics. https://www.k12academics.com/school-grades/kindergarten.

(5) K-12 education content standards in the states - Ballotpedia. https://ballotpedia.org/K-12_education_content_standards_in_the_states.

Standardization in education is the process of establishing and implementing common standards, curricula, assessments and policies for teaching and learning across different schools, districts or countries. Standardization in education can have both benefits and drawbacks, depending on how it is designed and implemented.

Benefits of standardization in education

Some of the benefits of standardization in education are:

• - It can ensure that all students have access to high-quality and relevant education that prepares them for college and career success.
• - It can provide a clear and consistent framework for teachers to plan and deliver instruction that meets the needs and expectations of students, parents and employers.
• - It can facilitate the comparison and evaluation of student achievement and school performance across different contexts and levels, enabling the identification of strengths, weaknesses and gaps.
• - It can support the improvement of educational quality and equity by providing feedback, guidance and resources for teachers, schools and districts to enhance their practices and outcomes.
• - It can foster collaboration and innovation among educators, researchers, policymakers and other stakeholders by sharing best practices, evidence and experiences.

Drawbacks of standardization in education

Some of the drawbacks of standardization in education are:

• - It can limit the diversity and creativity of teaching and learning by imposing a one-size-fits-all approach that may not suit the needs, interests and abilities of different students, teachers and communities.
• - It can create a culture of testing and accountability that may reduce the intrinsic motivation, engagement and enjoyment of students and teachers, and lead to negative consequences such as stress, anxiety, cheating or dropout.
• - It can neglect or marginalize the importance of other aspects of education that are not easily measured or standardized, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, social-emotional skills or cultural competence.
• - It can increase the influence and power of external actors, such as governments, corporations or organizations, over the educational decisions and practices of local educators, schools and districts.
• - It can generate resistance or backlash from some groups or individuals who may perceive standardization as a threat to their autonomy, identity or values.

Bing, 7/12/2023

(1) The Pros and Cons of Standards-Based Education – UWSuper. https://online.uwsuper.edu/degrees/education/msed/educational-administration/pros-cons-standards-based-education/.

(2) Effects of Standardized Testing on Students & Teachers: Key Benefits .... https://soeonline.american.edu/blog/effects-of-standardized-testing/.

(3) ISO - Education about standards. https://www.iso.org/education-about-standards.html.

(4) Equity and Standardization: Are they Compatible? - Impact Tulsa. https://www.impacttulsa.org/2020/01/02/impacttulsa-equity-in-education-defining-equity-2/.

(5) 5 Reasons to Have a Standardized Curriculum - BORGEN. https://www.borgenmagazine.com/5-reasons-to-have-a-standardized-curriculum/.

(6) Education Standardization: Essential or Harmful? | Getting Smart. https://www.gettingsmart.com/2013/04/26/education-standardization-essential-or-harmful/.

What is The Science of Reading?

The Science of Reading is a term that refers to a body of evidence that encompasses multi-disciplinary knowledge from education, linguistics, cognitive psychology, special education and neuroscience. The Science of Reading looks at the essential cognitive processes for competent reading and describes how reading develops in both typical and atypical readers⁴.

According to the National Center on Improving Literacy, The Science of Reading is:

• - A collection of research from multiple fields of study using methods that confirm and disconfirm theories on how children best learn to read.
• - Teaching based on the 5 Big Ideas: Phonemic Awareness, Phonics, Fluency, Vocabulary and Comprehension.
• - Ever evolving as new research and evidence emerge over time¹.

Why is it controversial?

The Science of Reading is a controversial topic because it has been used to fuel a long-running debate over the best way to teach reading, specifically whether phonics or whole language is best. Some teachers are outraged that they had never learned how to teach phonics in their teacher preparation programs. Others argue that the Science of Reading is often used rhetorically to deny reasonable differences and cut off healthy debate. Some researchers and ELL experts argue that states that have taken up these initiatives have narrowed literacy instruction to a few foundational reading skills that fail to meet the needs of English learners⁵.

Some critics of the Science of Reading movement also worry that it ignores the importance of language, identity, culture and sociocultural contexts in reading development. They fear that it creates children who can read words proficiently, but who have little in the way of critical thinking or comprehension skills⁷.

Who are the supporters and opponents of this method?

It is hard to identify clear supporters and opponents of this method because different people may define it differently and may agree or disagree with some aspects of it. However, some general trends can be observed:

• - Supporters of the Science of Reading tend to emphasize the importance of phonics instruction, especially for struggling readers. They often cite research that shows the benefits of systematic and explicit phonics teaching for word recognition and reading comprehension. They may also advocate for state policies that mandate phonics-based instruction and assessment for early grades. Some examples of supporters are:
•   - The Reading League, a nonprofit organization that aims to advance the awareness, understanding and use of evidence-based reading instruction³.
•   - Amplify Education, a company that provides curriculum materials and assessments aligned with the Science of Reading².
•   - Emily Hanford, a journalist who has produced several documentaries and articles criticizing balanced literacy and promoting the Science of Reading⁶.
• - Opponents of the Science of Reading tend to emphasize the complexity and diversity of reading development and instruction. They often cite research that shows the limitations of phonics instruction and the need for more holistic and contextualized approaches to literacy. They may also oppose state policies that impose narrow criteria for teaching and identifying reading difficulties. Some examples of opponents are:

•   - Lucy Calkins, a professor at Columbia University and the founder of Teachers College Reading and Writing Project, a popular balanced literacy program⁸.
•   - P.L. Thomas, a professor at Furman University and a blogger who critiques the Science of Reading as propaganda⁸.
•   - Nell Duke, a professor at University of Michigan and a researcher who studies literacy development in diverse contexts⁷.

Who is funding this campaign?

There is no definitive answer to who is funding this campaign because different groups and individuals may have different motives and agendas for promoting or opposing the Science of Reading. However, some possible sources of funding are:

• - Foundations and philanthropies that support education reform initiatives, such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Walton Family Foundation, or the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative.
• - Publishers and companies that sell curriculum materials, assessments or professional development services related to the Science of Reading, such as Amplify Education, Zaner-Bloser or Voyager Sopris Learning.
• - Advocacy groups and organizations that lobby for policy changes or public awareness campaigns related to the Science of Reading, such as The Reading League, Decoding Dyslexia or National Right to Read Foundation.

What are and how does The Science of Reading affect 3rd grade retention laws?

Third grade retention laws are state policies that require students to demonstrate adequate reading proficiency by the end of third grade or face being held back for another year. These laws are based on the assumption that third grade is a critical point in reading development when students shift from learning to read to reading to learn.

The Science of Reading may affect these laws in several ways:

• - It may provide a rationale for these laws by claiming that phonics-based instruction can prevent reading failure and ensure that all students are reading on grade level by third grade.
• - It may influence the criteria and assessments used to determine reading proficiency and eligibility for retention or promotion, such as standardized tests or screening tools that measure phonics skills.
• - It may shape the interventions and supports offered to students who are at risk of retention or who have been retained, such as intensive phonics instruction or tutoring.

However, the effects of the Science of Reading on these laws may vary depending on how it is interpreted and implemented by different states, districts, schools and teachers. There is also a lack of evidence on the long-term outcomes and impacts of these laws on students' academic and social-emotional development.

Bing, 7/12/2023

(1) Introduction to the science of reading | Australian Education Research .... https://www.edresearch.edu.au/resources/introduction-science-reading.

(2) The Science of Reading: The Basics - National Center on Improving Literacy. https://improvingliteracy.org/brief/science-reading-basics.

(3) Popular Literacy Materials Get 'Science of Reading' Overhaul. But Will .... https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/popular-literacy-materials-get-science-of-reading-overhaul-but-will-teaching-change/2021/10.

(4) What is the "Science of Reading," and why does it matter?. https://www.unr.edu/nevada-today/news/2021/atp-science-of-reading.

(5) The Reading League - The Science of Reading. https://www.thereadingleague.org/.

(6) The science of reading explained - Teach. Learn. Grow.. https://www.nwea.org/blog/2022/the-science-of-reading-explained/.

(7) Is there really a ‘science of reading’? - The Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.com/education/2021/01/26/readingwars-scienceofreading-teaching/.

(8) NYT Blasts Calkins with “Science of Reading” propaganda. https://radicalscholarship.com/2022/05/23/nyt-blasts-calkins-with-science-of-reading-propaganda/.