Hi!
Ron Nuebel has asked that I come and talk about school board policy issues, and I have agreed to be there on May 12. I suggested that I use this blog as a way to outline those policy issues I believe we are dealing with right now, particularly ones that impact your lives. In each case I have designed one discussion question that I hope can keep us engaged on that day.
1. THE ISSUE OF CURRICULUM RIGOR
I can just hear you say, “Oh, give me a break. I’m a senior. I’m not interested in anything more rigorous than getting out of here.” But are you aware that Governor Pawlenty and a sizable number of other legislative leaders are saying you haven’t had enough hard challenges? Are you aware that many people believe that we are losing out to other countries in a big enough way so that your children will have menial jobs while the high paying jobs go to where the brains are in India and China? are you aware that one-third of all Minnesota college kids are in need of remedial classes — classes they must pay for but for which they recieve no credit? Are you aware that these same leaders are asking for the following curriculum increases:
* All kids taking Algebra I by the end of 8th Grade
* All kids taking Algebra II before graduation
* More emphasis on the STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) discliplines
* All kids taking chemistry before graduation
* Rewards for kids, schools and teachers who undertake more Advanced Placement classes or International Baccalaureate Programs (there will even be a grant program announced soon that will reward whole schools for doing nothing but Advance Placement.
SO HERE IS MY QUESTION FOR YOU:
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