We experienced a
colossal week in American public education.
The state of Kentucky (along with 9 other states) received official notification
that our ESEA waiver was granted. What
exactly does this mean? Well, it means a
great deal and the hard work to enact it all is only beginning.
Personally, I
have two hopes for our flexibility from the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), and the crux of
both hopes is lifelong learning.
Hope #1:
Students receive opportunities to learn what they need to know to be
successful in life, and we meet their individual needs in engaging and meaningful ways—encouraging them to be lifelong
learners.
Hope #2:
Teachers are considered highly respected professionals. This happens when teachers are supported in
their personal pursuits as lifelong learners.
We need schools where there is a focus on reflection and growth for
adults and students and not a focus on “gotcha” evaluation and assessment systems.
“Learn from yesterday, live for
today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is to not stop questioning.”
~ Albert Einstein~
