[Grovenet] An Important Matter

[STEVE JERRETT]

Dale wrote:
> take it up with NCLB and the
> Feds...

Dale,

I understand very well where this is all coming from. However, much can be
done at the local level to mitigate the negative effects of these mandates.
It primarily hinges on the resourcefullness and creativity of the school
principal.

Another reason we are facing this issue is the configuration of grade
levels in our district. The grade 5-6 upper elementary model that we employ
is, in my opinion, flawed in many respects. 

I believe we would be much better served with K-5 elementary schools, and
two 6-8 middle schools. I believe that one more year in the local
elementary school setting would   be more conducive to student achievement
as opposed to the current "warehousing" method we employ at the mega upper
elementary schools. When kids are in a school for only two years, it is
hard for the students and parents to form a bonding relationship with the
school community. 

Also, if 6th graders were in a middle school model, they would have a class
schedule similar to a  high school model.  Elective classes would have
their own seperate class times and would not be a "pull-out" program, which
is the reason for the current issue.

I believe that the administration should take this into consideration when
looking for causal factors regarding lagging test scores at the 5-6 level.
It seems that if there were advantages to the 5-6 upper elementary model
that you would find the configuration utilized elsewhere.


Steve






 -----Original Message-----
> From: grovenet-bounces at rdrop.com [mailto:grovenet-bounces at rdrop.com]On
> Behalf Of Steven
> Sent: Friday, March 30, 2007 8:28 AM
> To: Forest Grove local interests list
> Subject: Re: [Grovenet] An Important Matter
>
>
> How much do you want to bet it is a play to get more funding?
> Give us money or we cut off you music.
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