Recent reports lamenting poor test scores seem to suggest returning to the good old days of No Child Left Behind (NCLB). The New York Times recently led the way, reporting, Why U.S. Test Scores Are in a ‘Generation-Long Decline.’ Bring NCLB back? When did it leave? Isn’t it a big part of why public schools […]
What I Believe Emily Hanford Misses About Reading
Emily Hanford has brought attention to reading, including several new podcasts, Sold a Story, claiming children have been harmed for years by reading instruction. She singles out programs she says failed. The stories about children are compelling. But she leaves out some history, and I don’t think she’s ever critical of any of the many […]
9 Concerns About the Science of Reading: Why It’s Not Settled Science!
In public schools, good reading instruction for all children is imperative. Understandably, parents and teachers want to do the right thing to help children excel at reading and learning. On that point, we all agree. States are passing Science of Reading (SoR) legislation claiming it’s evidence-based instruction, settled science, to address what appear to be […]
“The Truth About Reading” Is Missing Truths and Backstory
Americans are getting primed with a trailer for a new documentary called The Truth About Reading. It’s said there needs to be a grassroots movement of parents and educators who are angry and say enough is enough. Wouldn’t it be better if teachers and parents met and shared their concerns about reading at their schools? Schools […]
Is NCLB’s Reading First Making a Comeback?
Reading First was President George W. Bush’s signature reading program, the cornerstone of No Child Left Behind. With a $6 billion price tag (a billion per year for six years), it promised “scientific proof” it would have every child reading by third grade. States had to apply for federal grants. Reading First centered around phonics. […]
Misguided Education Reform
A nice thing that happened to me this past year was the publishing, back in July, of my book, Misguided Education Reform: Debating the Impact on Students, by R & L Books (Rowman & Littlefield). It covers many of the same topics you will find on my blog. I discuss special education which might be […]