A Recipe for Student Persistence

A Recipe for Student Persistence

There are experts on formative assessment in every school district in the country but they are not often recognized as such. Who are they? They are the athletic coaches in the building. How does a quarterback learn to improve his effectiveness in passing? How does a...
Speak No More of Rigor?

Speak No More of Rigor?

Writers, philosophers, and mystics know that naming a concept or abstract reality puts limits on our ability to truly comprehend it. By labeling things, we attempt to contain them, define them, and compartmentalize them. An educational term that everyone uses but few...
Using Technology to Increase Parent Engagement

Using Technology to Increase Parent Engagement

Last month I posted a blog entitled Parent Engagement Revisited, part on an occasional series on how to engage parents in the school and in their child’s education.  A webinar I participated in earlier this week made me return to this subject.  The webinar was...
Parent Engagement Revisited

Parent Engagement Revisited

In June, I posted a blog about college going and parent engagement. The posting explored several related topics: fostering student aspirations, involving parents in promoting college going, and ensuring responsiveness to parent and student needs.  It also pointed to...
Three Focus Areas for School Leaders

Three Focus Areas for School Leaders

A principal I know has reported that in the first four weeks of school this academic year, he has averaged being called out of his building to meetings close to two days per week. At that rate of disruption to the critical work of being a hands-on leader, a principal...