Cursive writing is important for many reasons, and its loss in America’s classrooms should raise concerns. Cursive not only differs from print in the way it looks, it connects letters to words in a meaningful and productive way. It has been shown to assist children with reading difficulties like dyslexia. All students benefit by learning […]
Betsy DeVos Goes Trick or Treating for Dyslexia
US Senator Bill Cassidy MD (R-LA) and his wife Dr. Laura Cassidy recently met with Education Secretary Betsy DeVos and dyslexia and learning disability organizations to discuss serving children with dyslexia. It’s important to remember five things. Public schools used to do more for students with learning disabilities. Resource classes, general education support, and certified […]
When it Comes to Special Education Deregulations, Watch DeVos Like a Hawk!
In the beginning, Betsy DeVos didn’t seem to understand IDEA. Now it looks like she is out to get rid of it! Here is her recent statement in response to an Education Week writer’s question about reauthorizing the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. I think Congress needs to seriously look at the commitment they made […]
Why Are Schools Still Using Response to Intervention?
Schools have only been in session for a few weeks. Already parents are troubled by reading problems their children are bringing home from school. It’s painful to hear of an otherwise happy child who succumbs to anxiety and distress over school due to reading. Reading should be a joyful experience. But for many children—reading is […]
10 Serious Issues Facing Public School Students: Where’s Betsy?
Betsy DeVos wastes precious time on her choice initiative, ignoring the most serious problems facing our young people in public schools. At a hearing the other day, she pushed many of these problems onto the states. But I would argue that these difficulties still require thoughtful attention and research from an education secretary who should […]
Dyslexia, The DeVos Vote, and a Senator’s Lost Credibility
There were several senators who I expected would change their vote on Betsy DeVos. In the end none of them did, and I think they need to called-out. Their votes for DeVos were especially unethical due to their past positions, or where they are from. I will write today about one, William Cassidy, M.D., who […]
What’s Scary to Kids: Having Dyslexia and Being Held Back in Third Grade!
You thought I forgot Halloween because I posted earlier today? No. Here is an old post that is unfortunately still relevant today. There is no point in rewriting what is already said. Happy Halloween! Have fun and stay safe out there! ___________________________________________________________________ With certain states jumping on the retention bandwagon, even though we know retention […]
Jeb Bush, Retention, and the Failed Ferris Wheel of School Reform
Jeb Bush continues to ride the failed Ferris wheel of school reform. He is most likely emboldened by state politicians and business leaders, like in Michigan, subscribing to harmful 3rd grade retention policies. Also, with a fancy university invitation for him to lecture about schools and stuff. Michigan is following Florida’s lead, and that of […]
Special Ed. Irony: CT Gov. Malloy and Judge Thomas G. Moukawsher
In every state we see an erasing of services for students with disabilities. Consider how Texas managed to omit an appropriate education for students with special needs. My guess is that in whatever state you live, special education is in trouble. How many children will not get the schooling they need to realize their dreams? […]
The Dangers of Eliminating Teacher Preparation
Wisconsin is thinking about letting anyone teach. No degree will be required to enter the classroom and work with students. Isn’t it bizarre to encourage young people to go to college but claim their teachers don’t need a college degree? Surely this is quackery. But I thought it would be a good time to do […]