Local Knowledge Blog

The Opt-Out Movement and What it Tells Us

One of the most noxious pieces of the education reform movement is its insistence on “fixing” inner-city schools with a system that would never be accepted by middle-class families. More rigidity, more testing, more discipline, rather than all the hallmarks of good schools (creativity, diverse curriculum, discussion). Now that the Common Core State Standards are … Continue reading The Opt-Out Movement and What it Tells Us…

Posted by Stephen Danley in Local Knowledge.

Camden’s School District doesn’t understand its own test score data

There are a myriad of changes being made to the Camden School District, and a host of both positive and negative responses being written. But one theme runs through all of these choices. The District simply doesn’t understand that test score data is more reflective of a student’s background and special education status than a … Continue reading Camden’s School District doesn’t understand its own test score data…

Posted by Stephen Danley in Camden, Local Knowledge.

What I’m Reading: Other People’s Pathologies

The issue of poverty and culture comes up over and over again in my classes. I’ve increasingly found myself referencing this piece by Ta-Nehisi Coates (which is part of a larger debate with Jonathan Chait) to anyone who will listen. So I thought I’d share it with you. Here’s a powerful excerpt, but please read … Continue reading What I’m Reading: Other People’s Pathologies…

Posted by Stephen Danley in Local Knowledge, Worth a Reread.