Meaningful learning goals
Darling-Hammond states that there needs to be "well-grounded common expectations of learning,"(pg.279) developed by people who know what they are doing, preferably at the state level, rather then federal. This is important because vast, broad declarations by the federal government tend to be just that. At least state professional are aware and generally sympathetic to local differences and needs. I feel that it is important for county and city professionals to guide the learning goals of their individual schools. Teachers need to be included in the decision-making process, as well.
Intelligent, reciprocal accountability systems
I think it is very important that schools and teachers are held responsible for the performance and equity of the instruction BUT it is imperative that there is an awareness when it is impossible to perform because of inadequate resources being provided by school leaders.
Equitable and adequate resources
Continuing with my thoughts above...all schools should be following adequate "opportunity-to-learn" standards. Per pupil funding has to be equalized across the nation. Teachers also should be trained equally across the nation.
Strong professional standards and supports
This part is really important. Teachers need lots of support. We need relevant professional development and training. We are the best resource in any district or school and need to be utilized and honored for our expertise and desire to improve. Teachers helping teachers is the most efficient and effective form of professional development.
Schools organized for student and teacher learning
The collaboration time that is given to teachers in my district is so valuable to the education of our students. This time, which is built into our daily schedule, allows the grade-level teams to meet, discuss issues, plans, common problems is exactly what should be in all schedules. The collaboration time is also used for parent/student meetings where the team, plus the principal and the counselor get to meet with the students and their parents or guardians. It is a valuable opportunity for all involved to address issues that are arising or celebrate successes. To me, this is an authentic example of schools being organized to benefit student and teacher learning.
Darling-Hammond states that there needs to be "well-grounded common expectations of learning,"(pg.279) developed by people who know what they are doing, preferably at the state level, rather then federal. This is important because vast, broad declarations by the federal government tend to be just that. At least state professional are aware and generally sympathetic to local differences and needs. I feel that it is important for county and city professionals to guide the learning goals of their individual schools. Teachers need to be included in the decision-making process, as well.
Intelligent, reciprocal accountability systems
I think it is very important that schools and teachers are held responsible for the performance and equity of the instruction BUT it is imperative that there is an awareness when it is impossible to perform because of inadequate resources being provided by school leaders.
Equitable and adequate resources
Continuing with my thoughts above...all schools should be following adequate "opportunity-to-learn" standards. Per pupil funding has to be equalized across the nation. Teachers also should be trained equally across the nation.
Strong professional standards and supports
This part is really important. Teachers need lots of support. We need relevant professional development and training. We are the best resource in any district or school and need to be utilized and honored for our expertise and desire to improve. Teachers helping teachers is the most efficient and effective form of professional development.
Schools organized for student and teacher learning
The collaboration time that is given to teachers in my district is so valuable to the education of our students. This time, which is built into our daily schedule, allows the grade-level teams to meet, discuss issues, plans, common problems is exactly what should be in all schedules. The collaboration time is also used for parent/student meetings where the team, plus the principal and the counselor get to meet with the students and their parents or guardians. It is a valuable opportunity for all involved to address issues that are arising or celebrate successes. To me, this is an authentic example of schools being organized to benefit student and teacher learning.