For the students, it was a science project studying the effects of footwear on speed. But for educators in this town on the North Shore of Long Island, it was part of a higher-stakes experiment: giving students with solid but not stellar grades access to the best academic and extracurricular programs. Full Story »
Posted by Stephanie Savell
The article offers some insight into a (new?) trend of involving the "middle kids" in more rigorous academics, but overall, it's very general in its treatment of a complex topic. The piece is based largely on anecdotes and opinions; it is difficult to discern the effects of this new policy of inclusion. Are there any studies out there about this? Including data from some would provide important context.
At one school profiled in the article, middle kids had, until recently, been denied access to do original research in science classes. How could something so basic to understanding science be reserved only for kids performing at higher levels? There must be more to the story here -- it doesn't add up.
Great examples supporting the thesis that most (some would say all) students benefit from rigorous offerings and high expectations. No research or contrary opinions offered.
In so many school systems, original research isn't a real opportunity for anyone. Opening it to this proportion of students is a big improvement, but not my goal.
A terrific and hopeful article that perhaps Public Schools might FINALLY be getting it in gear. Good explanations of changes in the schools, the methodology and reflections on some of the previous shortcomings. Well done all the way through.
Perhaps the public schools are going to learn what private schools have known for years, all kids can learn when given stimulation and a chance. Hopefully, parents of school kids will push for more of this.
This story describes one school district's approach to include a broader percentage of students with a wider range of achievements in AP classes. The school claims that including the middle and letting the top rise naturally has worked to the benefit of all. Interesting but too narrow to be conclusive.
When my children were in school, in schools with reasonably rigorous curricula, the challenge seemed to be the middle since the top generally took care of themselves. However, that was my casual observation, not a thorough and objective evaluation.
An article that while well researched and sourced, seems to be a bit one sided. Being in the middle like I was, be it lack of trying or in the genes, wasn't bad. I wouldn't want to sit in a class with genius's knowing I was holding them back. There's nothing wrong with being average. Most people are. If I was put in a class with kids that were well below average and the teacher took all of their time with them, I would feel cheated.
It wasn't until I wanted too take school seriously that I buckled down and raised my grades. Putting me in a class of gifted kids would have set me back .
An insightful, well balanced, well researched news article on new attempts to address an important problem -- the ignored "middle" between the high and low achievers in school.
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