by David Safier A short article based on an unscientific survey of internet "experts and users" concluded that the internet will improve reading and writing skills, and make us smarter to boot. Take the survey for what it's worth, which is very little, but I think there's something to its conclusions. When people understand writing … Read more
by David Safier One of the AZ Republicans' educational reforms this year is to give each school and district an A-through-F grade, just like students get on their report cards. Apparently, it's a wonderful idea because: It won't cost any money Florida does it, so it has to be a good idea. I read SB1286. … Read more
by David Safier From Steve Gall: Unfortunately, HB2408 elementary school recess did not even get a hearing in front of the House Education Committee. Chairman Rich Crandall, Republican from Mesa, told Rep. Frank Antenori who introduced the bill that he did not have the votes. Several of the Committee members, both Democrats and Republicans, sit … Read more
by David Safier AZ Republicans are blowing smoke once again to obscure their unconscionable defunding of education. This time, it's that old favorite, the 65% solution. State lawmakers are moving to require schools to spend at least 65 percent of their funding on classroom expenses – but using a method that the top education official … Read more
by David Safier The story in Sunday's NY Times Magazine, How Christian Were the Founders?, has nationwide import. Basically, a very powerful conservative cabal on Texas' state school board dictates what will be included in textbooks which will be bought by the state. And since Texas is such a huge consumer, as the state's textbooks … Read more