program is a success or failure yet. I'm a huge numbers guy but what we
have here is a small sample size and ultimate success isn't measured in
test scores. These test scores are important because we need to be able to
measure the effectiveness of these programs but ultimately it's how well
these students are able to integrate into society that will be the final
measuring stick.
As for the No Child Left Behind program....I think it's a very noble
goal. Unfortunately, some school administrators have twisted this and have
lost sight of what is best for the children. About 4 months ago there was
a WSJ article about a family with a young female. The school principal
forbid the student from enrolling in a school for gifted children. The
parents accused the principal of forbidding the child the opportunity
because the school could not afford to lose it's gifted students who would
pump up their school scores. The principal did mention that there was a
concern that an exodus of gifted students might lower the overall score,
and less federal aid, of the school and that she was committed to the
school as a whole and not a single individual.
Before the No Child Left Behind program was instituted, school took it as a
badge of honor to quickly develop gifted students and then send them to a
more challenging environment. Now it seems the children are being treated
like a commodity. Good if you are a commodity trader; bad if you are a
school administrator.
I'm sure this is an extreme side effect. I'm just pointing out that the
program has created an unexpected reaction and perhaps a few minor tweaks
are necessary.
PS The family was also from Cleveland OH which probably has one of the most
messed up education systems in the US.
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