It's not often that Tennessee's schools get praise for leading the nation, but the journal Education Week has praised state schools for policies and programs aimed at improving high school graduation rates, developing quality teachers and aligning curriculum with college and work force needs.
The state was cited for its efforts to set standards for graduates and for investing in pre-school programs that help children do better in school.
Tennessee's overall grade was a C+, compared with a C given to the nation as a whole. In school finance and a student's chance for success, the state did worse than average.
Among the factors in a child's success is the parents -- in fact many educators say that could be the most important factor. Tennessee falls behind the rest of the country in parents where at least one parent has a post-secondary degree. Parents are also more likely to have employment and income issues. English is not a problem in the state. The report found 95.5 percent of the state's parents are fluent English speakers compared with 84.3 percent nationally.
As we've said before, teachers are capable professionals who can teach students who show up ready to learn. This report, like others before, demonstrates that our real work in improving education must come in improving the family lives of children. When a child's home life and community life is positive, students will succeed.
-- Jim Grinstead
David Brooks, of all people, offers some interesting insights on this subject in the Friday New York Times op-ed section. Not that I agree with all he wrote, but he does focus on important aspects.
Posted by: Catfish | February 15, 2008 at 02:46 PM
You're right, that's an interesting piece. At least he acknowledges the importance of the Middle Class. It seems moderate conservatives are raising their heads and coming back out.
Thanks for the reference!
Posted by: Jim Grinstead | February 15, 2008 at 03:43 PM