Chicago schools could be in for some big changes, if the suggested school reform proposal goes through.
Longer school days, longer school years, making it easier to dismiss under-performing teachers are among the ideas suggested by Senate Democrats Wednesday. It could be voted on as early as today.
Much of the language of the reform has to do with tenure and rights of the teachers’ union, but still, students will still be affected by an easier method of dismissing bad teachers — and the option to keep high-performing teachers over under-performing teachers, regardless of seniority, in the event of a layoff — and the school district now has the option to lengthen the school day or year. The suggested system seems to be good for kids because it helps ensure that quality teachers can stay in place.
Everybody who’s been to school remembers that awesome yet challenging teacher that pushed them to work hard, up to their full potential. I bet most former students remember that so-so teacher who lost homework, couldn’t control the classroom, or didn’t really teach anything. Why not give our students a better chance to have those great teachers? And give incentive to the so-so teachers to become great?
Our kids’ education is at stake. Shouldn’t we be giving the best opportunities possible?
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Image courtesy of Valley Library (Oregon State University) via Flickr
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