I attempted to muddle through the governor's reading bill and find it disturbing that politicians are making such critical decisions about literacy. These decisions could be detrimental to our students. I'm sorry but focusing on holding back 3rd graders instead of placing our focus and funds on early literacy is completely INSANE!!!!!! Who is making these uneducated decisions about our kids? Research shows that early literacy is the key to successful reading in the later grades, not the opposite! I'm hoping that some of the amendments will prevent this stupidity.
I have fears that if we tie state assessment results to our students either pass/fail with the possibility of being retained, that we will focus even more on teaching to the test. Not only that, but what kind of pressure are we placing on our kids with the fear of being retained held over their heads if they fail a test. What about our dyslexic students that don't have IEPs and struggle with reading? Statistics prove that holding back a dyslexic student does them more harm than good. Honestly, I'm terrified of the damage that this type of thinking can lead to.
I spent some time this evening on both the KASB and KNEA sites to get a feel for both. It is my observation that KASB is more neutral and factual. I found more detailed information on the various bills without any biased opinions. On KNEA's site, I observed articles that were more biased with limited details and facts on the bills. I also feel that KNEA's site is more negative, and the authors of the articles seem a little paranoid.
I'm curious to know more about the bill concerning carry conceal in public buildings. Does this mean that teachers will be able to carry to protect their students? I know Texas and Oklahoma have passed a similar bill, if this is what I'm thinking it is.
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