- Back from a bit of a break and catching up. Chad was quoted in a piece over the weekend talking about the new charter sponsor evaluation protocols being put in place in Ohio. Some folks think the highest rating is unobtainable; some think that’s just fine if true. Others – like the online commenters – are expecting some “wiggle room” to emerge. (Columbus Dispatch, 1/17/16)
- Leroy Elementary in Riverside Schools in Northern Ohio is being studied for closure due to declining enrollment and deteriorating conditions, among other things. Parents were encouraged to attend this week’s special board meeting about the proposal. (Willoughby News-Herald, 1/16/16). They obliged, and largely disagreed with the proposal. (Willoughby News-Herald, 1/19/16)
- Speaking of small town schools, the Poland district near Youngstown is considering changes to its school calendar. They say they need to start the school year earlier in 2016-17 in order to have more prep time for PARCC testing. Do you want to tell them, or should I? (Youngstown Vindicator, 1/20/16)
- Speaking of Youngstown, we’re still waiting for more courtroom action on the definition of “teacher” – a decision which is holding up the entirety of the Youngstown Plan – but in the meanwhile, here’s some court news you can use. School Choice Ohio’s case against Springfield City Schools regarding a data request for voucher-eligible student contact information is not only still percolating through Ohio’s justice system, it’s actually going to be heard in the state supreme court. This week. Go SCO! (Court News Ohio, 1/19/16)
- In the spirit of finding interesting clips in odd places (there’s nothing I won’t do for you, loyal Gadfly Bites subscribers), here’s the story of Alex Angelo, a young Clevelander for whom online schooling was the right choice. He transcended years of bullying and was able to embrace his future career as a “singer, DJ, dancer and musician” at the same time. Interesting stuff, as is the GenDIY thread on this blog. (Getting Smart blog, 1/18/16)
