[Mpls] "Unlearning racism.." / 8 point plan to close the gap

[Socialist2001 at cs.com]

In a message dated 6/1/2004 5:22:43 PM Central Daylight Time, 
hunstadn at hotmail.com writes:

<< While I agree with some of the policy proposals by Doug Mann (like #2 and
 #4), I don't see any proposals that deal with what is probably the biggest
 factor behind student performance problems: parental involvement... >>

That may be true of the performance problems of some students. However, the 
words "parent involvement" are too often invoked merely to change the subject 
whenever problems with the schools and possible solutions come up for 
discussion.  

Proposal #3 is about developing a formal individual educational plan for any 
student who is failing to thrive academically. A parent certainly must be 
informed of any problem that would lead to taking this step, and should be 
involved with the process.

Proposal #7 calls for repeal of the district's so-called pay for performance 
scheme. The problem of ineffective teachers is partly a reflection of the 
district failing to promote best practices in educating a majority of students.  
Reducing the concentration of inexperienced teachers (Proposal #4) at certain 
schools and other steps could be made to improve supervision, training, and 
support for teachers.  And I would appreciate any comments on this subject, on or 
off list.

Doug Mann, King Field
Minneapolis School Board candidate 
Web site: www.educationright.com
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