Reading Within the Common Core

I found these two audio reports on NPR very interesting; and they both use very "parent-friendly" language to describe the how and why Common Core has changed the way we teach reading.  Click on the following links to read and/or listen to the short segments.

The High Achievers

The Struggle Over Struggle

Change in NC School Funding

Subtle, but very significant, change in funds - especially for those systems dealing with growth.  Click here to read the N & O article.

Starting the Day Right

Yet another example of a "duh" issue... one in which we all know what's right, but refuse to change.  This editorial from the Washington Post says it all.  Click here to read the obvious support (highlighted by a new policy statement issued by the American Academy of Pediatrics) for moving high school start times.

Teacher Empowerment

Interesting news story about teacher independence.  Watch this short video by clicking here.

This great blog, by Richard Byrne, highlights free technology resources for educators.  This particular entry features an online collection of the best commencement addresses.  'Tis the graduation season...

Click here to go to the blog link.

21 Things That Will Be Obsolete by 2020

Schools are interesting institutions in that they are intentioned to prepare students for the future, but quite often they are asked to represent the past by multiple educational publics.  This article, by Shelly Blake-Plock, describes a student day very different from their parents'.  The article begs the question, "What is the role of the teacher in the 2020 'classroom'"?  Be sure to check this list out by clicking here.

What Students Really Need to Hear

This blog post, by Chase Mielke, is one that would ring true with many teachers.  It echoes the earlier post of mine (January 2014) regarding the development of "grit"in our students.  This is definitely worth the few minutes it takes to read.  Click here to go to Mr. Mielke's blog, and this most interesting letter to his students.