- I’m not sure when it became de rigeur for school choice supporters generally and charter school advocates specifically to lead with charter school bashing in any discussion of charters in Ohio, but that does seem to be the new norm. Luckily for these noobs, charter school opponents have seeded tons of references in the past for use today. Feel free to copy/paste. Case in point, this piece from the 74 Million blog – in which our own Chad Aldis is quoted – talking about the Buckeye State’s new sponsor evaluation system and how it relates to larger charter reforms enacted in 2015. The author seems less than optimistic about the potential success of said reforms. Luckily, Chad is sunny and positive as always. (The 74 Million blog, 1/4/16)
- So, what’s going on with the legal wrangling holding up the first meeting of the new Academic Distress Commission in Youngstown? Not much. Well, more like legal maneuverings which look to the rest of us like “not much”. Who has/doesn’t have standing to object, why can’t the commission just meet while these things are being hammered out, and the old chestnut what is the definition of “teacher”. All these burning issues were subjects of filings and motions and press releases (oh yes) this week. (Youngstown Vindicator, 1/6/16)
- While the above-mentioned motioning was going on, one of the central figures in the legal wrangling was allowed no time to let moss grow under her feet. Dr. Carol Staten, currently enjoined from being seated on the new Academic Distress Commission, got a new job this week: full-time principal at Volney High School. The interim supe says it was his decision, matching the skills of the available talent to the challenges of the post. But is she a “teacher” now? (Youngstown Vindicator, 1/5/16)
- Nice little story here about “Power Hour” at one suburban elementary school in central Ohio. It may sound just like extra tutoring for students who need it (a good thing in itself), but the teachers and administrators at Hilliard Horizon seem to have gone all out for this, including crucial bus transportation to make sure the kids who need a little small group helping hand can access it. Very nice. (Columbus Dispatch, 1/6/16)
