School Reform

School reform is a touchy, passionate subject because most everyone is directly affected in one way or another and most everyone has an opinion.

School reform should begin with those closest to our children.  Parents, teachers, school administration, community members, and students should have direct part in creating and implementing school reform.  If these educational members do not have a voice in reform, it is very likely that it may not occur.  Why would we not involve the practitioners in the process?  Our local, state, and federal officials should provide the vehicle and the support for making educational changes.  Our government should provide the resources, but with flexibility so that educators can provide the optimum learning environment for our children.  When our state and federal government strong-hands its way into educational decision-making, it forms a resentment among educators and generally an extraordinary amount of unnecessary initiatives, followed by an extraordinary amount of paperwork.

A reform example that supports these ideals is that of the Small School Workshop.  This organization is composed of educators wanting to make a difference and promotes the importance of the ‘small school’ and the benefits of small learning communities on student education.  This organization prides itself on a unique program, not one that has a pre-determined schematic approach.  What is important to note is that this reform effort works with the direct stakeholders—the students and the teachers.  This effort blossomed from an individual who recognized the benefits of the small school.  Working in both rural and large urban schools, I also see the positive benefits of learning communities.  The small-school approach is a prime example of amazing reform that could flourish with support from state and federal entities.

The David School has taken cues from the ideals of the small school environment for at-risk youth.  Rather than a business, the David School is a community.  Based on the recordings from students meetings with administration, it is apparent that students are heard and have a voice in their future.  Instead of the adults making all the decisions, the students and parents are involved in the process.  For example, when Chris was in trouble for providing substances to other students, he and his mom were also engaged during the conversations about his future.  It is obvious that the staff at the David School know their kids, know their problems, and are involved with their destiny.  Why would they not be the stakeholders in reform for these students?

Abandoning the belief that the government should guide these decisions would be controversial and doubtful that it would ever occur because education is a national platform.  In our society, education is fundamental and stirs the highest emotions.  The question must be raised though, “Would educators ever testify as experts in the oil business or experts on foreign relations?”  Of course not!  Why is it still okay for politicians to pose as experts in what is best for our students?  Controversial…I think so!!!