[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> In my opinion, the most effective and efficient way to close the gap would be
> to create positions for probationary teachers and distribute them evenly
> through the district's schools, stop laying off excessive numbers of teachers
> (which increase turnover and burnout) and phase out "low-ability" classes and
> intra-classroom groupings, which reportedly has been done in some school districts
> without "teaching to the middle," i.e., watering down the curriculum for
> "high ability" classes (Ann Wheelock has written at least a couple of books on
> this subject, including "How untracking can save Americas schools").
Doug,
These are not bad ideas. I don't personally think that ability grouping is as
prevalent in the district as you
imply. Dave Heistad is the person who would be able to provide the specifics
regarding student performance in each
classroom, which is, of course, different than student ability - students don't always
perform according to ability. More
specific and current data regarding student performance is, I think, something that
most people in education are striving
for these days.
Your idea of creating spots across the district for new teachers is also worth
pursuing. It's going to be an uphill
battle this year and probably for a few years to come because of the likelihood of
more cutbacks. The idea would be
easier to implement in a growing district instead of a shrinking one. The people to
sell on this idea are the respective
contract negotiating teams for the union and the district. A seat on the board may
not even be the strongest position
from which to influence such a change. You might be just as effective honing the
pitch for both initiatives right here on
the Mpls Issues list or in conversation with folks at the district and union.
I appreciate the effort and sincerity of your ideas.
Dan McGuire
Ericsson
REMINDERS:
1. Think a member has violated the rules? Email the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED]
before continuing it on the list.
2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait.
For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html
For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract
________________________________
Minneapolis Issues Forum - A City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy
Post messages to: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
