Isn't interesting that our public schools can recognize the differences between a varsity quarterback, varsity pitcher, varsity basketball center, and allow them to excel in those programs accordingly - BUT - cannot apply the same logic to reading, writing and arithmetic...which are supposed to be the primary subjects that our taxes fund.
California 8th-graders face algebra mandate - click here |
Friday, July 11, 2008 - Untitled Comment
This is a good thing. Set the bar high, work hard to help every student achieve. It can be done, and it can be done without a massive infusion of cash to pay for books, computer programs, more class time and more qualified teachers. There might be a need for more qualified teachers, but almost any school initiative is met with a cry for more money. Thats just a knee-jerk reaction from educators.
Excuse me, Mrs. Smith, said the principal. I need you to teach your eighth graders algebra.
What?! I couldnt possibly do that without an extra three thousand dollars in my payhceck and new computers for every child.
And to think that Netwon realized Calculus with his mind, a quill, and parchment.
I would hope that the mandate does not extend to home schoolers, simply because as a rule, we do so much better than our public school peers that we should be left alone.