High Stakes Community Schools

   I thought the activity of the "mock public meeting" was an effective teaching/learning tool.   The proposals for the imaginary school district were good ideas to get us students thinking about real life situations in education.  So often there are differences in opinions about what are the best practices for a school district to implement.   Education is a personal and emotional issue for many people.  (Some of the students roll playing really got into their characters.)  Many lives are affected by the decisions made by a school board.  The school district is a reflection of a community. Children, parents, teachers, administrators, community members and tax payers all should have a say in how the school operates.   But the bottom line is that the federal and state governments will enforce laws to make sure that No Child Is Left Behind.   All public schools must ensure that their students meet the standards that are set.

   I think that this exercise makes us future teachers realize that accountability for how and what students learn is the focus of our job as educators.   Teaching isn't easy, it is complex and demanding, so you better make sure that you are up for the challenge.