We know it was tough to be Gadfly-less through Thanksgiving (although we hope our sumptuous video menu helped tide you over). Good news: we're baaaack. This week, the top slot features a guest editorial from Charles Chieppo and Jamie Gass of Massachusetts' Pioneer Institute on the future of the MCAS. Recent recommendations on how to amend this top notch test to include "21st century skills" seem more likely to backtrack the assessment than actually hop it into the 21st century. Then check out some unbelievable stories from Florida (Carvalho's head is still in the clouds), California (Thanksgiving an occasion for violence?), and New York (the clock's run out on those Rubber Room reserve pool teachers).
You'll also find a lively discussion on this week's podcast (featuring not only guest co-host Dave DeSchryver but also Monty Python) and two letters to the editor from Michael Casserly of Council of Great City Schools and Andy Smarick of the U.S. Department of Education. The former loved Eric's op-ed from two weeks ago and the latter wants to clear up some confusion surrounding NCLB's recent four-year graduation rate regulations. Finally, take a peek at the summary report of the School Finance Redesign Project and a hefty study on effective teachers from the National Bureau of Economic Research.
Whew, it's quite a read. And don't forget: the second Great Debate (a.k.a. an epic clash of former deputy education secretaries!) is only a week from today. Waiting for the next Education Secretary to be announced got you down? Cheer up with this lively debate!
