This quote by John Dewey is still relevant today, as Americans decide how to handle the current state of education. Of course we all want an amazing education for our own children, one that is rigorous, thoughtful, compassionate, and that truly prepares them for an unknown future. However, the most vulnerable children in American communities are the ones who are the first to be denied an ideal education. Linda Darling-Hammond outlines her recommendations for national and state education policies, in which there need to be "twin commitments":
Her recommendations fall under five key elements and my take-aways are as follows: Meaningful learning goals
If policies such as those mentioned above were to be implemented, students' lives would change. There would be more of a focus on what matters most, offering high-quality education to prepare ALL students for their unknown futures within and outside of the work force. As our government and educational leaders continue to struggle to make things better for all of our students, each of us teachers can focus within our classrooms to make sure that we're preparing our own students in the best ways possible.
3 Comments
Joel
10/13/2019 07:29:55 pm
Such a great quote. Yes, "ALL" students is the key word. In order to move forward as a country and as educators we need to be sure that all students receive the highest quality education possible. On a positive note, I have seen some of the best teachers at low-income schools which makes me feel good that Dewey's quote can be achieved someday.
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Jeremy Smith
10/13/2019 09:13:32 pm
I'm like how you mentioned the "opportunity to learn" standards. Until now the state has held students accountable for learning, but not itself. It has not set up the conditions to ensure student success. I think our new "colored pie chart" multiple measures way to grade schools is a step in this direction. She really lays out a great plan for us to improve schools. Let's hope we find the political will that'll be necessary in order to provide the funding to do all of these things. These great ideas will remain ideas until voters require stepped up funding for education.
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Kathy
10/14/2019 08:32:51 pm
Well said. This point really stuck with me, "Accountability needs to be transparent at all levels - top-down as well what happens in classrooms." I often feel as if so much pressure is put on teachers to have students perform at a certain level, but the politicians take away so much, yet keep requiring so much more. There needs to be accountability at ALL levels. Are teachers getting the necessary resources and support to ensure that they are able to provide a equitable education to all of their students? Right now in our political climate I would say no. They keep talking about the shortage of teachers, however, the political climate is forcing so many people to not enter the teaching profession, or to leave it. How do we implement a system that ensures accountability at all levels? It would have to take a huge movement, and major changes.
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