Say "No" to National Standards

Alfie Kohn offers a sold argument against national standards:

"Debunking the Case for National Standards," Education Week, January 14, 2010

The Flat World and Education, Linda Darling-Hammond

A book we should take note of:

The Flat World and Education, Linda Darling-Hammond

Here is a review of the book as well.

Poverty and Race in the South

See the data in this new report on the dominance of poverty and minority racial groups in the South: "A New Diverse Majority: Students of Color in the South’s Public Schools"

Henry Giroux's Argument Concerning Freire

This is a sharp and needed piece on the importance of Freire today:

"Rethinking Education as the Practice of Freedom: Paulo Freire and the Promise of Critical Pedagogy," Henry Giroux

Interesting from Diane Ravitch

Ravitch about changing her mind based on evidence.

Key Studies to Consider

• A new study reveals the growing achievement gap related to tracking.

• 2009 Bracey Report (which sadly comes to us after the recent passing of a great contributor to education, Gerald Bracey. . .RIP)

• We must remain vigilant when pro-choice forces remain intent on using the plight of the poor to promote their agenda; see this unmasking of the Harlem Zone claims.

• See also Ravitch on Harlem Zone.

My Op-Ed in The State

I argue against more accountability and continue to plea for some acknowledgment that social conditions are failing our children:

New president, same failed education policy