Reforming Education in the US...What is the answer?

     Came across an interesting article in PDF format the other night.  Although it is no secret there are school systems throughout the world who are doing the right things and making quality strides at improving their educational systems, I think the model in which the country of Finland provides is intriguing and provides substantive evidence its model is effective.  http://www.aft.org/pdfs/americaneducator/summer2011/Sahlberg.pdf

    I think most educators across the board agree that by raising the level of respect for the teaching profession here in the US is a top priority.  The answer invariably comes back to raising teacher's salary's significantly to compare to that of other white collar workers and professions in business.  While I do think this would ultimately go along way to moving in that direction, it is unreasonable and not practical to think that US politicians and legislators will anytime soon reverse their current ideology and positions regarding the profession as demonstrated by their actions and lack of support in raising teacher's salaries to compare with their peers in similar industries.  In fact, many states have shown their continued propensity to continue to place education at the bottom of the list in funding and expenditure.  Even those states who are putting the vast majority of their budget toward education, data and statistics compiled still are not showing the achievement and success as rivaled by some of the other leading countries around the world.  Why?  To this end, I proclaim no knowledge of having the right answer(s).

     I do know that in the US, school districts continue to employ programs and policies that are supposedly termed as being best practices and current educational philosophy in the hopes that these are the right answers to move us in the right direction, or is it?  The model in which is currently being used in Finland, to me, shows promise.  Raising the standards for those who are entering the profession seem justifiable and a common sense approach in which I do not know whether it is realistic here in the US in regards to preparing and hiring only the best and brightest into the profession.  The standards in which they currently require would perhaps eliminate thousands of would be educators wanting to teach in the US.  Shortages across the nation are abundant already due to the lack of respect and pay that is being offered to those wanting to enter the profession.

     I do believe there is tremendous potential in allowing more local control of educating students at the Grassroots level, and allowing the teachers and administrators at this level to determine what should be learned and how it should be learned.  By raising the standards locally or by the individual states seems logical as a front end and rapid approach to raising the quality of the educational infrastructure of "a school" or school system.  The statistics are impressive as to what is taking place in Finland over the last quarter century, and does provide food for thought for those who are invested fully into education and the futures of our young people and society as a whole.

     Am I just the quintessential dreamer, or does some of this make blatantly simple and sound reasoning?  I look forward to opinons and thoughts as to these two reads.  Yours in the fight, and GODSPEED! 

       

Finding Time to Lead?

     Whether a high school football coach, a small business owner, a public school building administrator or a Fortune 500 CEO this is intriguing.   After reading and reviewing Lisa's blog http://www.lisapetrilli.com/2011/10/19/ceos-most-pressing-people-challenges/ and all the links provided, I found the energy and motivation to offer my two cents on the topic.

     Experienced leaders appreciate and realize the importance and value of the people who work for them, and seeing to their sustained growth within their chosen field or profession..  It is their charge to encourage, facilitate, motivate and nurture their colleagues in scope and substance so as to empower them to self actualization within their respective jobs, organizations and careers.  Attaining this level of leadership competency is much easier said and written about than it is done in reality.  It is just as applicable with five members or 5000.  If, and when  this level can either be approached or arguably accomplished, people and employees subsequently find and  see themselves as invaluable members of the team or organization.  Again the old axiom is there is no "I" in team. Their desire and motivation to be productive and successful comes from within, in the realization of what they do is appreciated, acknowledged and respected.  In summary, leading and being part of a successful organization or school or business is being proactive and accepting the challenge that a leader exists merely to act as a servant.  It is their calling to provide a platform and venue for other leaders to emerge to a position or status above that in which has been achieved by the original leader.  The organization, just like that of a smooth running automobile engine, works finely-tuned and congruent with one another.

     In my personal and professional quest over the last thirty years to be a competent and high quality leader, I constantly struggle with one obstacle.  I would tend to think that most people in similar positions might be inclined to agree?  With so much to be done and accomplished in terms of developing your staff and employees from a human resources standpoint, I would be remiss in not confessing to have failed miserably.  Simply, but often times merely misunderstood, "time" is the obstacle standing in the way in developing people to their maximum potential and their leadership capabilities.  The daily grind of taking care of deadlines, matters, issues and paperwork, etc... I know has prevented me from establishing, nurturing and maximizing the relationships and connections I know are huge!  In some instances I worry they are desperately needed for the people within my teams and organizations to realize their integral and significant role within the team and ultimately grow.  I leave with the original question.  I sincerely appreciate and welcome any and all feedback on Lisa's article as well as my take.  Godspeed and PEACE!   

How Should Teachers Engage Student's Imagination?

     In regards to this recent Wall Street Journal article http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970203914304576631100415237430.html the question brings to focus not "if"  but "how to?"  I concur with most of what Mr. Murdoch commentates about yet one of the underlying issues or problems is that school districts, and ultimately the leadership of said, are moving too slowly and are content with the status quo.

     Many school district leaders and superintendents are too out of touch with their roots.  Most have worked their way into their current positions by serving in the schools as teachers and ultimately at building level administration and leadership, to where they are now.  There are many district leaders who have spent little time in the classrooms within the trenches, and likewise have served far too little time in building level leadership roles to have a firm grasp and understanding of the complexities and dynamics of what goes on in individual classrooms.  I am not here writing to stereotype or make any sweeping generalizations about educational leaders across the board. 

     A classroom, and ultimately individual schools, are so diverse, multi-faceted and fast moving that it is extremely hard to explain and comprehend if you are not, and have not been in education for quite some time.  I think those who know education realize, and if not should, that schools are ultimately communities.  As such, the happiest and most productive communities are those in which there are high levels and degrees of communication, openness, diversity, respect and tolerance.  There is also cooperative spirits and cultures of collaboration and compassion amongst its members.  Consequently, you have successful schools in which there are high levels of student achievement and little disruption and discipline issues. 

     In retrospect, I believe with some reservation, that schools and classrooms are in fact not doing enough (or perhaps taking the right initiatives or approaches through digital and technological means)to stir and engage student's imagination, thought and critical thinking skills.  Some of this is in fact due to lack of resources, yet I believe equally at cause here is teachers apprehension at moving forward in their thinking (and yes their imagination) and while making concerted efforts to "learn" thus testing and hopefully increasing their technological acumen and aptitude.  Teachers, with the staunchest of building level administration support, should be open to taking risks and thinking outside the box in their lessons (planning and preparation).  At the forefront of their minds they need to be asking themselves what and how am I going to keep my students engaged and spur their imaginations in my approach and pedagogy,  day in and day out in trying to create the perfect lesson plan?

     I adamantly believe that technology will not replace teachers, but when will teachers replace in many instances archaic ways of methodology with their one size fits all to instruction versus attempting to reach and make successful each child sitting in their classroom?  The answer therefore in my mind is to begin to look deep within themselves and begin modeling what coaching and facilitating is, versus working much too hard as an instructor in the traditional sense in the classroom.  I am a firm believer, and I think most quality educators will agree,  the best teachers are those who work harder in their planning and preparation stages.  Is this a difficult and daunting task?  By all means it certainly is.  However, if we want to encourage and engage imagination on behalf of our students, should we as teachers not do so first? 

Why Don't People Matter?

     Recently came upon a tweet, and ultimately what I see as being a profound and far reaching blog, that made so much sense it reminded me of what not only I, but most people need all the time! Sadly however, it is so beyond the collective consciousness of most people that it makes too much sense to stop and think about it and put it into practice. http://www.angelamaiers.com/2011/09/what-if-you-knew-you-mattered.html

      I have known of the value and importance of speaking and listening to people with one's full attention for some time now, and likewise thanking people all the time. I continue to practice and reach toward perfecting these arguably instincts or skills if you will. Fortunately, in stumbling upon the aforementioned tweet and subsequent blog, this addendum to how I try and live both my personal and professional life will now be enhanced ten fold.

     Angela, I thank you for sharing with others. Beyond the two words "Thank You" it now seems to me by using the term "You Matter" can have an equally profound impact and effect on the quality of other people's lives as well. One comment shared in response to your article was equally profound as I continued to reflect on what all of the others said. This wise man suggested that humans perceive others as being either a problem, project or a person. These words do ring clearly in retrospect. Our goal as human beings should not be our concern for the superficial and perception of what others think of us but being true to ourselves in what we say and what we do regardless of the outcome or potential consequences. So why do we not practice what we preach ultimately is the definitive question, no? I can honestly say with all the hundreds, if not thousands of daily personal and professional interactions and conversations I have with all whom I encounter, I rarely ever here these two simple words uttered by anyone?

     As a coach, facilitator, father, husband, leader and professional, I think this will be part of my continued calling to help bring understanding and hope for all the people I regularly interact with each day within both the remote and happenstance, as well as part of my intimate and required forums; "You Matter!" and "Do you know and realize that You Matter?"... Beyond all my experiences, beyond all my travels, beyond all that I have witnessed and taken part in over the years, all the education that I have been exposed, these two words are prophetic in their potential to impact the quality of life for others while offering endless volumes to educate and empower one person, one at a time.

      One wise man put the complexities of life into a simple few cliches; be passionate about what it is you do, and have compassion for all others. Likewise, take care of little people, take care of the elderly and take care of all the animals.

     I suppose in contributing to a bolder and greater world for what little time we have left here on this huge earth, these few thoughts as expounded on above certainly couldn't hurt the ills and instability that seems to prevail within the context of the larger picture of all that goes round in the world...

Peace to all my brothers and sisters, and Godspeed

An American Educator's Review on Gaza

     After recently viewing the movie Tears of Gaza http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCbNfyBJ3Os I felt compelled to comment on it.  As I stated over on my Facebook page, it is with the solemn realization and sadness of the unnecessary plight of these people in which they have had to endure for a generation. This is the case with all peoples who have been and are are oppressed and discriminated against.  Not only the Palestinians of this tiny piece of land but also referencing all of history and the suffering and inhumane treatment and exploitation of any people for their religious beliefs and their differences.

      I want all people who take the time to view the movie which is very graphic, and ultimately read my response, that I am not taking sides necessarily, yet no one in their right mind or of and conscience can morally concur of the unjustified action(s) of one nation going unchecked and dismissed by the international community (United Nations included) of a supposed reputable government.  There unleashing and use of United States provided military equipment, as well as the use of munitions in which have been outlawed by international military law for years provided for the bloodshed and violence upon these oppressed people simply in response and out of retaliation for the equally unjust and terrorist aggression of a few.

     This story, like all stories written and unwritten throughout history, exemplifies how the larger picture and the power and authority exercised by those who have the ability to wage war and death upon others, impacts and effects the nameless and the innocent!  Ultimately, as depicted in the film, the toll and aftermath befalls the people with no role, no authority and no power other than to try and live in safety and security with the opportunity to be self sufficient, content and happy.  Nameless millions throughout are the ones who have to suffer ongoing fear, grief and sadly horrific consequences... 

     These people our NOT world leaders, presidents, prime ministers or generals.  Those who make the decisions and carry out the wanton and utter disregard for human life have little ability and willingness to exercise compassion for others, tolerance for other's differences, respect for each peoples desire just to exist.  Yet, WE put them in these positions to lead and protect us?  We are equally at fault and are to be blamed for allowing such insanity to occur and condone.  I loathe at my own unwillingness and incapability of being more proactive and acting to do more unlike truly great people such Rachel Corrie http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rachel_Corrie .  We ourselves, instead of finding ways to build bridges and solidarity and mutual respect among all peoples sit silently or opine as to our agreement or disagreement with one side or another. 

     Both sides in this particular issue have suffered immensely through their well documented histories at the hands of others, let alone between themselves.  Those who know their history realize the complexity of the differences between the two peoples.  Consequently, the resulting and ongoing violence.  With this said still,when will human beings learn that human greed for power and the material is the root of all of our evils?

Making Sense of 9/11-PART TWO

     One of the highest quality reads I have gandered at in years!  As one critic stated it is of "Pulitzer Prize" calibre and consideration.  http://www.truth-out.org/decade-after-911-we-are-what-we-loathe/1315836650 

     I think most educated people worldwide who know and understand thoroughly their history would agree without reservation.  The author eloquently states what is and has been on many people's minds for a long time, yet simply did not know how to put it into words.

     This leads me to reinforce and lay claim to my prior argument that knowledge and education is in fact power.  Unfortunately, knowledge and power that is achieved,  historically it has been documented to be abused.   Dating back to man's earliest existence, it  has too many times been misplaced and abused in mankind's greed and quest for fortune.  The self interests of man permeates, like a diseased cancer, their sound common sense and thinking.  A famous person once said, "the pen is mightier than the sword".  If this is the case, this article needs to put into the hands of people with power, to be READ.

     One might call me a pacifist, which is fine. Everyone is entitled to their opinion.  One might call me anti-republican, and this is fine.  I am independent in my political views, and not one to argue with another over religion as I believe in God as well.

     The bottom line, even as a Marine, is that bloodshed and death through war is incredulous.  I absolutely abhore the notion of what history continues to tell us and repeat of itself.  Not at all a cynical person by nature, but the facts are that the world continues to swirl into a deeper and deeper black hole.   In the end, other than laying claim to some prize, whether materially or idealogically, it accomplishes nothing in the very end.  On the contrary, the continuing pain and suffering of the masses throughout the world...

    Machiavelli's principles reference power continue to influence and keep its grip on world leaders in the 21st century.  Self interests, along with special interests, continue to prevail and sway public opinion upon the masses of those who do not even understand or can define the terms nationalism or zionism.  Who really are the Filistines, and for that matter who really cares?

     Godspeed to all who have given their lives for their fellow man and not necessarily for something else.  Their selfless sacrifices to what they believed was right regardless of what their leaders thought and did, and whether they were militarily or politically motivated, are the truest of demonstration of compassion and humanity.

    We all really are just pawns in what is becoming increasingly more troublesome in the chess game of life, no? 

    

Making Sense of 9/11

     In response to an article from an Arab in the middle east, http://www.commongroundnews.org/article.php?id=30323&lan=en&sp=0
I felt compelled to chime in on the topic.  I appreciated the article and its objectivity.  I asked a follower on Twitter, what is there to make sense of?  She replied, read the article.  So, here is my take on the tragic event of ten years ago.

     Watching the event unfold from the confines of my high school history classroom in Charlotte, to think otherwise than a tragic airline mishap to trying to explain to a class of approximately twenty five World History students aged 14-19, it is difficult to convey to them in a few mere words, and place into context, the unfolding of thousands of years of history.

     The sole human mind in all its complexity and dynamic as the earth's greatest computer compared to the insanity and inhumanity it is capable of is the ultimate of all oxymoron's or contradictions.  Essentially, human beings are slightly more complex than all living things possessing the earth.  When posed with the adrenaline of having to fight or flight, animal instincts prevail and in the end ultimately demoralize our intellectual and emotional superiority.  We are forced,  like all living animals, to act or respond in a way to survive.
 
     Contemplate the minds and thoughts of those who committed the terrorism, regardless of their ethnicity or religion. Their intellect, creativity and ingenuity in pulling off such a horrific display and lack of compassion and humanity.  To attempt to make sense of these few individuals is infinitely useless.  The actions and reasons for such as did the victims behave and react at the time of the tragedy and afterwards is additionally profound. To the rest of us who witnessed this infamous tragedy we cannot begin to fathom the thought processes of the mind.

     As for the aftermath, in which is more of the focus in my mind reference to the aforementioned article,  regardless of your ethnicity, faith or religious affiliation this tragic and horrific event will, as does all of history, be just that. It will go into the history books.  With this said, generations and generations of bigotry, prejudice, religious indifference, and lack of tolerance and mutual respect will be written and dictated from opposing points and sides of view, I suppose?

     A couple of closing points, I hope that intelligent people can agree upon; millions of ignorant people who have no appreciation or understanding of past history and its context, is the reason there is so much bloodshed, violence, and hatred and killing throughout history, present and the future ahead, is because we ALL simply fail to feel the pain and suffering of others.  Finally, the one constant and or key in which supersedes all is the power of education and knowledge in realizing that sweeping generalizations should never be made based upon the actions of a few or one.  The masses of those who are ignorant will continue to spark and fester the divide that exists between east and west, while compassionate, sensible and knowledgeable people of the earth will continue working to bring us ALL together.

     Godspeed to all who suffered a loss of a loved one on 9-11-2001.