The language we use is important. Nice sounding buzzwords like “reform,” “choice,” and others can be used in ways that have devastating effects on communities. The latest word getting a lot of buzz in Camden education circles is “accountability.” But the accountability fetish only applies to a very narrow understanding of the word; the Camden School District is neither … Continue reading False Accountability from the Camden School District…
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There are some great folks writing about the latest in Camden’s education scene. I’m glad to share the thoughts from those watchdogs, and even more pleased that we have talented folks turning their eye here: From Save Our Schools NJ: In May, Save Our Schools NJ sent several letters to Education Commissioner Hespe, highlighting how … Continue reading Late Night Legislation for Charters in Camden…
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Almost a month ago, City Invincible Charter School was arbitrarily closed. The arbitrariness was blatant; there was no patience to wait for the school’s second year of test scores, and no attention paid to indicators that scores had increased in the charter’s second year. The harshness of a sudden closing has attracted eyes from the community, … Continue reading Welcome to the Disillusioned Club…
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This is an excerpt from an excellent article by Jake Blumgart (@jblumgart) over at Next City. The rest of the article is behind the paywall, but Next City really does wonderful work on cities, so please consider subscribing. This article cites my work pretty extensively, and its in-depth look at the response to Philly school … Continue reading Next City w/ a Treatise on Public Engagement…
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Camden isn’t the only place where students are protesting and getting into the mix surrounding education politics. The Newark Student Union’s continuous effort to oust Cami Anderson caught a wave of publicity this week when they decided to stage a sit-in at a Board Meeting. Predictably, their political opponents claimed the event was coached by adults, … Continue reading Newark’s Student Union isn’t a Puppet, but It is Powerful…
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For the second straight day, students have walked out of classes in Camden high schools. That protest is quickly shifting from the warm and fuzzy of political action by youth, to something much more powerful and poignant. The Camden School District, like any institution, can only function with the consent of its members. It appears to … Continue reading School Only Works if Students Consent…
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