It's been difficult to decide what topic to address next. After reading a lot of news editorials, it seems the most talked about in education concerns Merit Pay. I have a few comments about that.
Common sense tells us that if it's increased test scores that is the goal, then those teachers who bring about the highest test scores should be paid more. There are a number of variables regarding merit pay that must be taken into consideration. Here are a few:
1. Teachers have students one year, without any control over prior knowledge when they come into their classrooms. And they have one year to turn them around if they are far behind!
2. Teachers who prove to increase test scores are often "rewarded" by being given the most academically needy students. "Needy" students require more strategies, individual assistance, and are most often the ones who require the most discipline. These students require much more time. Some reward.
3. Teachers wear many hats. Teachers who are especially good are asked to share their knowledge and strategies with faculty, districts, and at conferences. They are placed on committees that, many times, meet until late hours. There is no monetary compensation. There is no such thing as "comp time." AND, many times, educators pay their own way to attend conferences, including conference registration, hotel rooms, meals, and gas. (Or plane ticket.) Another "reward" for wanting to learn new teaching strategies and improve the quality of instruction.
4. Education is an environment that fosters collaboration, collegial discussion, and sharing. Imagine yourself as an educator who has honed your skills to the point that your students show much growth during the course of a year. Are you going to share those skills? Probably not if you are receiving Merit Pay , because you are now competing with your fellow teachers.
5. Merit pay promotes cheating. It's already happening to keep schools from "failing." http://news.yahoo.com/americas-biggest-teacher-principal-cheating-scandal-unfolds-atlanta-213734183.html and
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/09/13/los-angeles-schools-cheat_n_960337.html Think about the expensive resources that will be needed to make sure this doesn't happen!
6. What would Merit Pay using test score data mean? Is it based on a percentage of your students meeting the proficient level or above, or is it the based on gains students show? And, if it's based on the former, how will this affect teachers who have students already meeting proficient or above?
As a recently retired educator, I received more money by obtaining my Master's degree and then National Board Certification. My work was important to me and I was passionate about it. I feel blessed to have worked in a field I loved. However, I need to be honest and admit that it was physically and emotionally draining to work the long hours and have so many obligations that many of my colleagues did not have.
Therefore, to avoid early burnout and low morale, I propose that changes be made to the current system of teacher pay. However, I hope the powers that be keep the above mentioned points in mind. Remember, schools are not industries and have no control over their raw materials. Is basing salary on test scores alone fair? And what about all of the support personnel who contribute to students' success but do not teach an area that is tested, such as elective area teachers? And what do we do about those who provide instructional support, as well as direct instruction, such as media specialists?
Perhaps the next topic should be centered around what goals and qualities we want for our graduating students.
Friday, November 4, 2011
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Has Public Education Got It Wrong?
With so many school reform headlines on the forefront, it would seem that our public schools are failing. And, according to these headlines, they are. Low test scores and low graduation rates are at the top of the list for reasons why changes are needed. One of the main concerns is a lack of individuality, or customization for students. Really?
Indulge me for a moment for a look into the past. A typical classroom 40 years ago had rows of desks. All students practiced the same lessons. The teacher would usually speak for a few minutes, explaining new material at the board, and then students read a chapter and answered questions at the end of the chapter. For spelling, we wrote each word 10 times - the idea that after writing it so much, it was ingrained in our memories. And it worked for the typical 72 hour recall to take the spelling test on Fridays. We regurgitated what we were told or read. We did not use math manipulatives. There was no hands on anything until high school. We worked as individuals, never allowed to speak to another student in class, and there were no resources for those who learned differently. Despite these drawbacks and old fashioned strategies, my classmates and I, for the most part, managed to become successful adults.
As in other professions, such as medicine, that have adapted to changes and improvements, and thanks to technology, schools no longer look like the classroom of 40 years ago. Today's strategies include students working together, and individually. Students have hands on learning, virtual field trips, information accessed by the click of a keyboard, and access to their instructors almost 24-7. Students who learn differently, speak a primary language other than English, or have emotional and psychological problems are provided assistance as needed. Students no longer regurgitate facts, but solve real life problems. Years ago, students wrote reports on topics. When I was in the 4th grade, I remember writing a report about Saturn. I read some facts in the encyclopedia and probably copied those facts and wrote them into one long paragraph. Now, rather than learning facts about the Revolutionary War, students may research questions such as, "What were the effects of the American Revolutionary War on our economy?" or "How is the culture of Ancient Greece relevant to our society today?" Actual investigation and thinking is required to answer these questions.
Teachers are more prepared than ever before. They are certified in their grade levels, content areas, and are better trained in techniques and strategies. They work in teams. Teachers have access to tests that provide individual student scores based on performance levels in each content skill area, and can use those scores to customize individual students' needs and address those needs through grouping or individual conferencing and instruction. .....Wait. What ? That's right. Customized learning in today's public schools. And, in addition, many districts utilize computer based instruction that teachers can use to coincide with these individuals' needs, as well.
So, what is the argument that accuses education of "cookie cutter" instruction, not customizing for individual needs? My guess is that it's the hype about all of the standardized required testing. No Child Left Behind has caused widespread panic among school districts that has trickled down to the classroom teacher, who is pressured to forego the meaningful student experiences as outlined above that take longer than can be allowed if all of the test items are covered by test time. Educators are struggling to maintain presenting meaningful and engaging instruction while addressing all of the required standards.
It's obvious that parents are looking for answers. Just look at the new alternatives to traditional public schools that are popping up: charter schools, virtual school, home schooling, and
private school vouchers. And, it's only natural. This is the age of individuality and customization. "Hold the pickles..." led to basically a society in which we can choose what we want, when we want, according to our desires. Everything is customizable and accessible, almost instantly. And we like to be in control.
We are also a society that is in love with new-ness. We are bombarded by new electronics, new styles, and new ideas. We have grown accustomed to wanting the latest and greatest. I believe this has trickled into our minds that newer is better. Thus, the thought that "old" public education is outdated has emerged.
But, is public education broken? If we have better resources, teachers trained in best practices, and tests that provide individual scores and needs that we didn't have 40 years ago, then what is the problem? Let's look at what else is different. Forty years ago, most students did their homework, completed classroom assignments, and behaved in class. And, I must say, even though lessons were boring, I behaved properly, did my homework, and completed my assignments. Why? Because my parents had expectations that I would do these things, and I was very much aware of these expectations. Parents did not make excuses as to why homework wasn't done. And it was MY homework, not my parents' Bless the parents who still have those expectations. When students develop poor habits and use excuses in school, what kind of work ethic are they developing to help them be successful in their workplaces as adults?
Sure, not all schools are good. Not all teachers are good. Not all doctors are good either. But, in my 30 years in education, I've never encountered better, more knowledgeable, caring, and prepared educators than I have my these last few years. And don't misunderstand my thoughts. Alternatives provide competition that fosters improvement. Let's work together to bring about awareness and each do our best in the roles we play in education, as professionals, parents, students, school board members, and community members. Our students are our future.
Indulge me for a moment for a look into the past. A typical classroom 40 years ago had rows of desks. All students practiced the same lessons. The teacher would usually speak for a few minutes, explaining new material at the board, and then students read a chapter and answered questions at the end of the chapter. For spelling, we wrote each word 10 times - the idea that after writing it so much, it was ingrained in our memories. And it worked for the typical 72 hour recall to take the spelling test on Fridays. We regurgitated what we were told or read. We did not use math manipulatives. There was no hands on anything until high school. We worked as individuals, never allowed to speak to another student in class, and there were no resources for those who learned differently. Despite these drawbacks and old fashioned strategies, my classmates and I, for the most part, managed to become successful adults.
As in other professions, such as medicine, that have adapted to changes and improvements, and thanks to technology, schools no longer look like the classroom of 40 years ago. Today's strategies include students working together, and individually. Students have hands on learning, virtual field trips, information accessed by the click of a keyboard, and access to their instructors almost 24-7. Students who learn differently, speak a primary language other than English, or have emotional and psychological problems are provided assistance as needed. Students no longer regurgitate facts, but solve real life problems. Years ago, students wrote reports on topics. When I was in the 4th grade, I remember writing a report about Saturn. I read some facts in the encyclopedia and probably copied those facts and wrote them into one long paragraph. Now, rather than learning facts about the Revolutionary War, students may research questions such as, "What were the effects of the American Revolutionary War on our economy?" or "How is the culture of Ancient Greece relevant to our society today?" Actual investigation and thinking is required to answer these questions.
Teachers are more prepared than ever before. They are certified in their grade levels, content areas, and are better trained in techniques and strategies. They work in teams. Teachers have access to tests that provide individual student scores based on performance levels in each content skill area, and can use those scores to customize individual students' needs and address those needs through grouping or individual conferencing and instruction. .....Wait. What ? That's right. Customized learning in today's public schools. And, in addition, many districts utilize computer based instruction that teachers can use to coincide with these individuals' needs, as well.
So, what is the argument that accuses education of "cookie cutter" instruction, not customizing for individual needs? My guess is that it's the hype about all of the standardized required testing. No Child Left Behind has caused widespread panic among school districts that has trickled down to the classroom teacher, who is pressured to forego the meaningful student experiences as outlined above that take longer than can be allowed if all of the test items are covered by test time. Educators are struggling to maintain presenting meaningful and engaging instruction while addressing all of the required standards.
It's obvious that parents are looking for answers. Just look at the new alternatives to traditional public schools that are popping up: charter schools, virtual school, home schooling, and
private school vouchers. And, it's only natural. This is the age of individuality and customization. "Hold the pickles..." led to basically a society in which we can choose what we want, when we want, according to our desires. Everything is customizable and accessible, almost instantly. And we like to be in control.
We are also a society that is in love with new-ness. We are bombarded by new electronics, new styles, and new ideas. We have grown accustomed to wanting the latest and greatest. I believe this has trickled into our minds that newer is better. Thus, the thought that "old" public education is outdated has emerged.
But, is public education broken? If we have better resources, teachers trained in best practices, and tests that provide individual scores and needs that we didn't have 40 years ago, then what is the problem? Let's look at what else is different. Forty years ago, most students did their homework, completed classroom assignments, and behaved in class. And, I must say, even though lessons were boring, I behaved properly, did my homework, and completed my assignments. Why? Because my parents had expectations that I would do these things, and I was very much aware of these expectations. Parents did not make excuses as to why homework wasn't done. And it was MY homework, not my parents' Bless the parents who still have those expectations. When students develop poor habits and use excuses in school, what kind of work ethic are they developing to help them be successful in their workplaces as adults?
Sure, not all schools are good. Not all teachers are good. Not all doctors are good either. But, in my 30 years in education, I've never encountered better, more knowledgeable, caring, and prepared educators than I have my these last few years. And don't misunderstand my thoughts. Alternatives provide competition that fosters improvement. Let's work together to bring about awareness and each do our best in the roles we play in education, as professionals, parents, students, school board members, and community members. Our students are our future.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Getting Out of the Box with School Libraries
Welcome to my first post since retiring as a Library Media Specialist. Or Teacher-Librarian. Or Information Consultant. Throughout my 28 years in education, I've worn the label of all of the above while serving as a school librarian for 25 of those years. The label doesn't really matter. The passion, commitment, and those we serve, do.
The topics chosen for this blog are a reflection of my thoughts. My posts will reflect my observations from the the standpoints of being a parent, community member, educator, classroom teacher, and, of course, the school library media specialist. I invite comments. The ability to post comments is the best part of a blog, since they provide feedback on which we can further reflect and grow.
Let's begin with a question. What does a school library media specialist do? I'm willing to bet that most people will give an answer similar to, "checks books in and out," "shelves books," "reads to students," and "hold book clubs."
How sad.
The professional school librarian in this state is required to hold a Master's Degree in a field such as information science or educational media. Here is another thought. School librarians have standards to teach, just like teachers, preferably through collaboration with classroom teachers during research. Our state also has standards for cyber literacy, naturally connected to our national standards. In addition, the school librarian prepares and oversees a budget, selects and manages materials (both print and nonprint), serves on school wide and district committees, oversees adult or student assistants, may (and should) serve as the school's instructional technologist (helps teachers implement technology into lessons), and is frequently assigned other technical duties. School librarians do basically what a school administrator does, on a smaller scale, except they also teach. Many also sponsor programs that offer students experiences for growth in reading, special interests, and computers, and also are responsible for the morning live (or recorded) closed circuit news broadcast.
Now, here is another question. What field has shown possibly the most growth in the past decade? The answer is the field of information! You knew that though, didn't you? So, where am I going with this? Hang on, I'm almost there.
Let's take a quick look at some concerns we have about schools and our young people in general. 1) poor test scores 2) students' lack of knowledge about how to access, acquire, and use good information 3) poor reading skills 4) and how students practice risky behaviors in cyberspace.
Now, what do these concerns all have in common? They are all areas that the school's librarian has the power to foster improvement. So, in many cases, this isn't happening. Why? Because when it's time to lower costs in a poor economy, we cut an already minimal library staff.
Because this is what has always been done.
FACT: Students know how to entertain themselves with technology by downloading, uploading, texting, viewing, and listening. But, ask most teachers, and they will tell you that they do not know how to access and utilize information, or what sources to use to gather information. They do not know what is legal and not legal. They do not understand that a posted photograph cannot be deleted, even though they remove it from a site. It's in cyberspace forever. In other words, they do not possess the life skills necessary in the world we have today.
The school librarian can "fix" this problem.
School librarians have free online tools such as TRAILS to assess student knowledge, and obtain individual scores before working with classes. They still teach how to use a dictionary or encyclopedia, only now, it takes longer, because we teach how to use both printed and electronic ones. 21st century librarians reach their communities through Facebook, Twitter, blogs, wikis, podcasts, online photo sites, and it takes time to update those. 21st century school librarians collaborate with classroom teachers, bringing together an expert in content, and an expert on information, to provide the best quality experience for the students embarking on research projects School librarians still pull requested materials from the shelves for student and faculty use, but also utilize Web 2.0 tools to create helpful links for online resources.
This sounds wonderful. So why are school librarians on all levels often frustrated? Because instead of conducting the types of professional activities listed above, they must circulate and shelve materials, process new materials, repair worn labels or book spines, keep the batteries charged for the myriad of electronics, check in and stamp magazines, because they have no paraprofessional to assist them in the daily activities.
School librarians do the same tasks as 30 years ago, plus the added tasks involving technology, information literacy lessons and research projects, keeping up with the latest and greatest online tools, and share them with students and teachers. In other words, the work load has increased about three fold, but there is still one person doing the work. My work week went from about 45 hours (including work at home), to about 60+ hours per week. If I see this correctly, that is not enough added time to conduct 3 times the workload. And 30 years ago I had a paraprofessional.
School librarians are the only educators whose standards include the lifelong skills of locating, accessing and utilizing valid and appropriate information, and working together as students to create new information. Our standards also promote lifelong growth through reading through individual interest and selection.
Cutting library staff, or having a minimum level of professional staff is not only hurting our student communities but is no longer acceptable in the 21st century.
In closing, I challenge a school district to go "outside of the box" by piloting a program where there are MORE than the minimum number of professional and paraprofessional staff in a school library, by conducting a 3 year research study to demonstrate an increase in test scores, teachers empowered with technology knowledge and digital tools to use with instruction, and information literate students, with lifelong skills to help them be successful for life.
Investing in qualified, creative, and knowledgeable school librarians is a sound investment in our future.
The topics chosen for this blog are a reflection of my thoughts. My posts will reflect my observations from the the standpoints of being a parent, community member, educator, classroom teacher, and, of course, the school library media specialist. I invite comments. The ability to post comments is the best part of a blog, since they provide feedback on which we can further reflect and grow.
Let's begin with a question. What does a school library media specialist do? I'm willing to bet that most people will give an answer similar to, "checks books in and out," "shelves books," "reads to students," and "hold book clubs."
How sad.
The professional school librarian in this state is required to hold a Master's Degree in a field such as information science or educational media. Here is another thought. School librarians have standards to teach, just like teachers, preferably through collaboration with classroom teachers during research. Our state also has standards for cyber literacy, naturally connected to our national standards. In addition, the school librarian prepares and oversees a budget, selects and manages materials (both print and nonprint), serves on school wide and district committees, oversees adult or student assistants, may (and should) serve as the school's instructional technologist (helps teachers implement technology into lessons), and is frequently assigned other technical duties. School librarians do basically what a school administrator does, on a smaller scale, except they also teach. Many also sponsor programs that offer students experiences for growth in reading, special interests, and computers, and also are responsible for the morning live (or recorded) closed circuit news broadcast.
Now, here is another question. What field has shown possibly the most growth in the past decade? The answer is the field of information! You knew that though, didn't you? So, where am I going with this? Hang on, I'm almost there.
Let's take a quick look at some concerns we have about schools and our young people in general. 1) poor test scores 2) students' lack of knowledge about how to access, acquire, and use good information 3) poor reading skills 4) and how students practice risky behaviors in cyberspace.
Now, what do these concerns all have in common? They are all areas that the school's librarian has the power to foster improvement. So, in many cases, this isn't happening. Why? Because when it's time to lower costs in a poor economy, we cut an already minimal library staff.
Because this is what has always been done.
FACT: Students know how to entertain themselves with technology by downloading, uploading, texting, viewing, and listening. But, ask most teachers, and they will tell you that they do not know how to access and utilize information, or what sources to use to gather information. They do not know what is legal and not legal. They do not understand that a posted photograph cannot be deleted, even though they remove it from a site. It's in cyberspace forever. In other words, they do not possess the life skills necessary in the world we have today.
The school librarian can "fix" this problem.
School librarians have free online tools such as TRAILS to assess student knowledge, and obtain individual scores before working with classes. They still teach how to use a dictionary or encyclopedia, only now, it takes longer, because we teach how to use both printed and electronic ones. 21st century librarians reach their communities through Facebook, Twitter, blogs, wikis, podcasts, online photo sites, and it takes time to update those. 21st century school librarians collaborate with classroom teachers, bringing together an expert in content, and an expert on information, to provide the best quality experience for the students embarking on research projects School librarians still pull requested materials from the shelves for student and faculty use, but also utilize Web 2.0 tools to create helpful links for online resources.
This sounds wonderful. So why are school librarians on all levels often frustrated? Because instead of conducting the types of professional activities listed above, they must circulate and shelve materials, process new materials, repair worn labels or book spines, keep the batteries charged for the myriad of electronics, check in and stamp magazines, because they have no paraprofessional to assist them in the daily activities.
School librarians do the same tasks as 30 years ago, plus the added tasks involving technology, information literacy lessons and research projects, keeping up with the latest and greatest online tools, and share them with students and teachers. In other words, the work load has increased about three fold, but there is still one person doing the work. My work week went from about 45 hours (including work at home), to about 60+ hours per week. If I see this correctly, that is not enough added time to conduct 3 times the workload. And 30 years ago I had a paraprofessional.
School librarians are the only educators whose standards include the lifelong skills of locating, accessing and utilizing valid and appropriate information, and working together as students to create new information. Our standards also promote lifelong growth through reading through individual interest and selection.
Cutting library staff, or having a minimum level of professional staff is not only hurting our student communities but is no longer acceptable in the 21st century.
In closing, I challenge a school district to go "outside of the box" by piloting a program where there are MORE than the minimum number of professional and paraprofessional staff in a school library, by conducting a 3 year research study to demonstrate an increase in test scores, teachers empowered with technology knowledge and digital tools to use with instruction, and information literate students, with lifelong skills to help them be successful for life.
Investing in qualified, creative, and knowledgeable school librarians is a sound investment in our future.
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