The subject of educational reform has been a prime topic since the publication in the mid 80's of A Nation At Risk. There have been uncountable new programs, new ideas, committee work, strategic plans, and studies. Why are we no nearer a solution than we were 25 years ago? Thomas Edison might be able to explain when he said, "We cannot solve our problems by using the same thinking we used to create them."
For that is what we've done. We keep trying to fix the system, within the system. We have this box consisting of daily schedules, yearly calendars (agrarian), traditional grade combinations, bus schedules, salary schedules, the lists go on and on. And we never "think outside the box."
We must look at new schedules and calendars, new ways to group grades, new partnerships with business and higher ed, career orientated rigorous and relevant opportunities. We must be innovative and offer parents and children chances and choices that will meet the needs of all.
Do we need the intermidable studies which eat up time we do not have? It's actually part of the problem as school personnel look at any new innovation as "just the latest fad." For there are programs that work, many of them pretty spectacularly. I have amassed a thick file of them. They are, for the most part charter or private/religious programs that call for higher standards and expectations and innovative ways to deliver curriculum. Is there any reason we cannot find ways to create these or similar programs in public school? I think not!
Learn about some successful education models through my Download Files page. One success is West Denver Prep, which opened in the fall of 2006 in a graffiti stained neighborhood at the south end of Federal Boulevard. Today it is the top performer in academic growth among DPS’ 44 Middle Schools.
A new addition: The Dolores Heurta Prep H.S. an exemplary charter school in Pueblo. Mostly minorities and at risk, they have much to brag about.