Roy's Account

Flawed Research: Strategic Vision and OCPA

2009-10-01T17:34:00.004-05:00

One of my favorite categories in this blog is called "Flawed Research." This category deals with studies opponents of public education have used to try to discredit our schools. The organizations tout the results as gospel to push their anti-public education agenda.

The Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs is noted for using these studies to enhance their positions. Op-ed columns, press releases and press conferences have sung their praises.

Not surprisingly, when put under scrutiny, researchers find a number of flaws and/or serious issues with the creditability of the studies. A few days ago, a survey commissioned by OCPA and conducted by Strategic Vision out of Georgia, was used to show how poorly students were doing in Oklahoma in regards to Civics instruction. These results were based on phone interviews to questions found on the US citizenship test.

Our state newspapers both used the information in stories to show how schools were failing their students. The results, if legitimate, would have raised serious questions. However, a few days after the splash in the press, there was some serious investigative reporting done and further information about the polling company, Strategic Vision, came to light.

The reporting puts into question the validity of the research and results, and puts OCPA clearly in the spotlight of the "Flawed Research" category. One story, Can Oklahoma Students Really be this Dumb addresses the results and methods used by the polling company while the other story, Pollsters Under Fire for '08 Surveys, brings the historical credibility of this company into question.

Rest in Peace Governor Bellmon

2009-09-30T21:37:00.004-05:00

The death of former Governor Henry Bellmon brings back tremendous memories of his forward thinking and courage in supporting education with HB 1017. The Governor was a true education champion and his work was a benchmark other states hoped to reach.

Sadly, over the last few years, Governor Bellmon had to watch as members of the legislature have tried to eliminate all of the gains made under this bill. Remember, this bill was passed, and than voted on, and passed, by the people of Oklahoma.

May you rest in peace Governor Bellmon knowing there are those of us who will continue to fight for your educational legacy.

Education Stimulus Dollars Used to Fill Budget Holes

2009-08-27T18:05:00.003-05:00

In a story by Kelsey A. Kemp, "A survey recently conducted by the American Association of School Administrators reported that the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding has prevented school districts nationwide from implementing reform and changes.

The survey, Schools and the Stimulus: How America's Public School Districts Are Using ARRA Funds, reports that while the ARRA funds mean additional dollars in school districts, most of that money is being used to shore up fiscal budget holes and, even then, the stimulus money is often not enough to prevent school districts from eliminating personnel and core subject teaching positions. According to the survey, more than 67 percent of the 160 school administrators said that the stimulus dollars were being directed toward filling state and local budget holes, and 53 percent of the administrators surveyed said they were unable to save teaching positions for either core subjects or special education."

Does it surprise anyone that stimulus money is being used to fill holes created by budget shortfalls? The money from the federal government was supposed to be used for new programs and innovations. What does this mean for the future of our schools? You can bet the opponents of public education will talk about how the stimulus money didn't work without addressing the real issues.

It's time we let President Obama and Secretary Duncan know what is taking place and we need to hold our legislators accountable for the budget mess they've created.

The Oklahoman Begins Support for SQ 744??

2009-08-24T20:25:00.006-05:00

"A survey being released today by the nonprofit Oklahomans for Responsible Government calls on school districts to make more information available to taxpayers via Web sites. Transparency, the group contends, is an effective and cost-efficient way to keep the public informed about matters ranging from public meetings to budgets. We agree."--Oklahoman Editorial

One of the components of SQ 744, aka the HOPE Campaign, is the commitment to school transparency. In an editorial, both of the Oklahoman and Oklahomans for Responsible Government support school transparency. They are finally seeing the light. Can their endorsement of SQ 744 be coming soon?

Editorial Facts and Common Sense: Plan B Less Money for Teachers?

2009-08-20T20:57:00.005-05:00

"How do you fill a $55.6 million hole in your grand strategy to reshape the education world?

It's a good question, but not an insoluble one. The answer will require the help of all the people who have brought the district this far in the process. The Tulsa philanthropic community will be called on for bigger donations. The state will need to give more, too. The teachers' union may need to consider taking a bit less. The district will have to scour its budget looking for other ways to reallocate the tax resources it has."--Tulsa World Editorial

The Tulsa School District found out it was not one of the schools selected for foundation money from Bill Gates. These excerpts from the world let you know how difficult it is to put these plans in place. There isn't enough money to do this kind of plan so the "teacher;s union" needs to take less.

Another broken promise in the performance pay debate. This isn't unusual. Performance pay plans fail because there is never enough money as they collapse under their own weight. Teacher's "buy in" to a program while changing aspects of their bargained contract. What do they get for it--broken promises and a weaker contract. It takes money to fund these programs and Tulsa has its work cut out for it to fund what they wanted to do.

Editorial Facts and Common Sense: The Same Weak Argument

2009-08-13T21:03:00.007-05:00

"Furthermore, the income tax cuts of recent years aren’t responsible for the revenue shortfall."--An excerpt from a recent editorial in the Oklahoman when discussing the shortfall in collections as state agencies are notified they will face a 5% cut in their budgets.

The impact of the cuts will have cost Oklahoma $ 2 Billion in growth revenue. The writer(s) try to continually make their weak argument at every chance they get forgetting the lessons they should have learned if they would have done their homework regarding the last time our state cut growth money when oil prices were high.

NEA President on Health Care

2009-08-12T08:23:00.002-05:00

Here is a copy of the letter NEA President Dennis Van Roekel sent to President Obama. (A similar one was sent to members of Congress.) I don't see anything I can't agree with as a citizen concerned about this issue. Maybe if we centered the debated on these points instead of exaggeration and fear-mongering, we'd have a civil discourse.

March 03, 2009
Dear President Obama:

The National Education Association commends you for placing health care reform at the top of your agenda and for convening a Summit on Health Care to examine this critical issue. Our 3.2 million members, including teachers, education support professionals, and higher education faculty, have long been strong supporters of the need for access to quality, affordable and comprehensive health care coverage for all residents of the United States.

While health care reform is vital to the recovery of our nation's economy, it is also a crucial ingredient for successful public schools. NEA members know firsthand that the lack of necessary medical and dental services for children and students of all ages creates a serious impediment to the learning process. In addition, families with access to a regular source of medical care are more likely to keep the entire family healthy and create a better learning environment within the home. By helping public schools attract and retain top-quality educators, health care benefits also play an important role in ensuring great public schools for all students. When school nurses become primary care providers, as happens all too frequently today, we're well past the time for health care reform.

NEA believes that health care reform must:

1. Guarantee coverage for the uninsured, currently estimated at 45 million individuals, including 9 million children;

2. Control costs so that premiums and health care services are affordable to all, regardless of income or employment status;

3. Incorporate provisions and standards related to medical safety and quality;

4. Result in comprehensive health care coverage that includes but is not limited to medical, surgical, hospital, behavioral health, prescription drug, dental, vision, hearing, and long-term care services and allows choice of providers;

5. Include preventive, wellness, rehabilitative, and disease management programs;

6. Make use of health information technology to reduce medical errors and administrative costs.

We recognize that there are many ways that health care reform could attempt to achieve the broad goals outlined above, but we also know that some proposals under discussion could ultimately be more harmful than helpful. For that reason, NEA also believes that reform must:

*Ensure the availability and security of employment-based health benefit plans. The employment-based system is a proven and effective way for workers and their employers to mutually agree upon the health benefit packages that make the most sense for them. Health care reform must not disrupt this system.

*Guarantee that the employee tax exclusion for health benefits is not limited or capped in any way. Over the course of their careers, many public education employees have traded salary increases for the long term security of a comprehensive health plan. Telling hard-working employees that benefits will be cut or that they will pay more taxes would unfairly penalize them. A tax on salaries above a certain amount would also be unfair to experienced educators who, after decades of dedicated service, have climbed to the top of their salary schedules. Limiting or capping the tax exclusion for health benefits could have a disastrous effect on public education by discouraging highly qualified workers from entering or staying in the profession.

*Maintain the ability of workers and employers to determine the appropriate level of health care benefits available to both active and retired employees, including the ability to negotiate above any basic benefit plan floor that might be legislated.

*Recognize and accommodate the specific circumstances of public sector employers, including their tax status. For example, reform proposals that include employer incentives to encourage continuation of employer-sponsored health care benefits should be mirrored in the public and private sectors.

*Ensure that health care benefits are available through a current or former employer, a government-sponsored program such as Medicare, Medicaid, or the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP), and/or a new initiative that would meet the goals outlined here. To ensure coverage of those who need it, NEA would support the creation of a well-funded public plan with comprehensive benefits intended for individuals and for small employers who do not currently offer health care benefits to their employees.

We thank you for your consideration of our views on these very important issues. We look forward to working with your Administration to ensure quality, affordable health care for everyone in America.

Sincerely,
Dennis Van Roekel, President

cc:
House Ways and Means CommitteeHouse Energy and Commerce CommitteeHouse Education and Labor Committee Senate Finance CommitteeSenate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee

A Kindle in Every Backpack?

2009-08-10T12:44:00.004-05:00

Here is an interesting opinion about all children having their own "Kindle in a backpack" so they can keep up with changing textbooks, the weight of textbooks and other issues facing students when dealing with books.

It's a concept that will be debated as we continue to move forward with new technologies. One only has to wonder how far the publishing companies are willing to go when this could conceivably cut into their profits.

Summer Reading Coming to a Close

2009-07-31T23:18:00.007-05:00

I hope you've found some time during the summer months to take some time for yourself and read a good book or two. I've had some really enjoyable fiction reads including "The Doomsday Key" by James Rollins; "The Devil's Punchbowl" by Greg Iles; and I just finished "A Plague of Secrets" by John Lescroart.

All of them were good reads, and if I had to recommend them I would pick Iles first, followed by Rollins and finishing up with Lescroart.

Iles work is takes you to life in Natchez, Mississippi for corruption, gambling,prostitution, and dog fighting. He is very graphic in his writing--so be warned.

I've never read any of Rollins work but I enjoyed this story line and there are a number of ethical/real life questions that makes you really think about dealing with the earth's population.

I've always enjoyed John Lescroart's work and this is no different. Secrets continues to build on the relationship between lawyer Hardy and detective Glitzky. I was surprised when he revealed the person/s who were responsible for the crimes.

Editorial Facts and Common Sense

2009-07-30T08:56:00.023-05:00

An editorial in the Oklahoman, addressing Oklahoma's poor showing in per pupil expenditure based on the latest US Census Bureau's report, brought out suspect arguements as it tries to refute Oklahoman's support of the HOPE campaign (SQ 744).

In an effort to address perceived short-comings, Oklahoma is compared to Utah whose students do better on the NAEP, despite warnings by NAEP officials for states not to compare results if states have their own state standards.

Utah's students are recognized by the writer as being "predominately white and more affluent" than Oklahoma's students. For years, the impact of poverty on kids has been a strong indicator of success. In comparing kids from the USA to other countries, America's public schools are bashed for not being competitive. But when you take out the scores of students in poverty, our kids come out on top.

No one is saying you ignore those in poverty, but to ignore the role poverty plays in students lives is irresponsible.

Another "fact" is that common education receives 35% of the Oklahoma budget. What the article fails to mention is that common ed use to receive 39% of the budget as its share continues to decrease.

Oklahoma is supposedly working very hard and will do better "when the economy recovers and revenues permit." Oklahoma is an oil state. The revenues coming in were incredible. Because Oklahoma had so much growth revenue, the legislature, thinking the revenue would last forever, cut taxes. They learned nothing about oil revenue, tax cuts and the impact on revenues occurring in the 1980's. For Oklahoma, our revenue problems, with a shortfall of $2B, are largely self-imposed.

The piece even states "[t]he claim that the Legislature enacted tax cuts at the expense of schools is unfounded...." Is it really? The state has a shortfall of a couple of billion, and it's not at the expense of schools? Not only schools but everything else.

Addressing salaries for the Oklahoman has always been about merit pay and the salary schedule. When presented with ways to enhance teacher pay, they balk at the possibilities and always return to the same old arguments.

Paying teachers to be competitive with other states and other professions gives Oklahoma the opportunity to recruit and retain people. However, when we aren't competitive, we end up with teacher shortages the legislature addresses by passing a variety of ways to become a teacher. We don't have a teacher shortage in our state. We have a number of graduates with education degrees who are in other professions because the pay and benefits are so low.

As more information is made available showing the legislature's embarrassingly low commitment to kids and our future, you will continue to see responses that try to white-wash the truth. Sadly, all Oklahomans are impacted by the "white-wash" and our state will have a difficult time competing and growing in its second century if the truth is not told.

Thoughts from a Boston Cab Driver

2009-07-27T17:05:00.008-05:00

During a cab ride back to my hotel on my recent stay in Boston, I struck up conversation with the driver. He shared a number of interesting stories including fares in which he picked up a number of athletes, Mr. & Mrs. Tom Hanks, and his favorite passenger, Donald Sutherland. As the conversation shifted to Boston and the surrounding area, I asked him how long he’d been a resident. All my life, he said.

When someone responds in that manner, I always ask them why. For the driver, it was two reasons. The first was one I wasn’t surprised to hear, the four distinct seasons, which he loved. Many of the locals have said the same thing.

I was surprised with his second reason. He said he loved the commitment to higher education the city had to offer. Kids from all over the world come to Boston for school, and a large number of them stay and make their homes here. He loved the thought that his city was never growing old and that wouldn’t be happening without the colleges and universities in the area.

Lessons from the Horizon Summer Programs

2009-07-23T23:31:00.007-05:00

Earlier this evening, NBC News ran a story on the Horizon Summer Programs that are helping public school students address the "summer brain drain". According to the video, the programs help address the achievement gap issues by providing selected students with tuition to attend, individual attention, and a varied curriculum involving swimming and other electives.

In order to attend, public school teachers nominate kids to be considered, and the ones who get accepted have their tuition paid by a private foundation.

It would seem that money, individual attention aka. lower class size, quality time with kids (including schedule) and a well rounded curriculum make a difference in the achievement gap.

These are the same issues public school teachers have been advocating for their schools. Maybe now the "so-called experts" will address those needs for all of our public schools.

2009 RA Sights & Sounds-OEA's New Leadership Team

2009-07-14T09:49:00.002-05:00

OEA's new leadership team: Lori Burris-Mid-Del Schools, Senior NEA Director, Linda Hampton-Pleseant Grove, Vice-President; Alicia Priest, Yukon, Jr. NEA Director, Becky Felts, Tahlequah, President, Lela Odom, Executive Director.

They will make a great team and do an outstanding job.

2009 RA Sights & Sounds-Passing of the Gavel

2009-07-14T09:00:00.005-05:00

The passing of the gavel to Becky Felts, OEA President.

2009 RA Sights & Sounds-OEA Skit

2009-07-14T08:50:00.006-05:00

Whenever there is a change in leadership, OEA delegates to the RA give tribute to the outgoing officers with testimonials before "throwing them under the bus" in a special skit in remembrance of their time in office. Special recognition to Greer Nichols who played me and Vice-President Elect Linda Hampton, who played my wife Katherine.

2009 RA Sights & Sounds-OEA at the RA

2009-07-13T23:30:00.007-05:00

2009 RA Sights & Sounds--Bob Chanin, NEA General Counsel

2009-07-13T23:15:00.000-05:00

"During the Bush administration...NEA was audited by the Internal Revenue Service, repeatedly. It was investigated by the Department of Labor. And it was called a "terrorist organization" by the Secretary of Education....Attacks by conservative and right-wing groups will continue unabated....Why, you may ask, is this so? Why are these...bastards picking on NEA and its affiliates. I will tell you why. It is the price we pay for success. NEA has been singled out because they are the most effective unions in the United States.--Bob Chanin, NEA General Counsel addressing the 2009 RA.

2009 RA Sights & Sounds--Anthony Mullen, Teacher of the Year

2009-07-13T23:14:00.001-05:00

"America's teachers and education support professionals live in very challenging and stressful times. Incredibly, many of the nation's economic problems are now directed at unions. We have become easy targets for some misguided government officials, economists, and media talking heads who believe it is time for us to give back and to share the pain. Well, teachers and education support professionals have burdened the pain of being underpaid and overworked for too long.

And since we have been given very little, we have nothing to give back. Teachers did not leave their classrooms and abandon children when the best deal in town was to work in the financial services sector. We did not join the legions of people that became wealthy by sitting in front of a computer and selling stocks and managing hedge funds. We did not envy friends and neighbors who prospered during the 1980s and 1990s and bought McMansions and took trips to Bali. No, we stayed with our students because we believe that education and our nation's children are too valuable to be abandoned for a new sports car. So we accepted our meager raises. We worked harder to narrow the achievement gap and did more with less to help our nation prosper. And now, some of the very same people who once asked me how I could live on a teacher's salary, are now asking me what I can do to help the economy. What my union is going to do to help the economy.

And I tell these people two things: One, teachers did not crash the economy. Greed and corruption by people entrusted with our country's financial health collapsed the economy.

And two, unions are helping to recover the economy by protecting the rights of their members. Unions are making sure that what has made our country great, the middle class, will not be sacrificed for the decadence of Wall Street."--Anthony Mullen, 2009 National Teacher of the Year

2009 RA Sights & Sounds--Linda Darling-Hammond, NEA Friend of Education

2009-07-13T23:13:00.000-05:00

"We need federal education policies that support educators in doing the challenging work they have committed to do, that supports schools to improve, that supports students in and out of school with adequate health care, with housing, with community supports. You know, when you go to high-achieving nations around the world, they don't have children who are homeless. They don't have children without health care. They have a safety net that enables every child to come to school ready to learn that day and to take advantage of what the school has to offer, as well as well-qualified teachers, counselors, principals and plentiful, high-quality learning materials. We need to meet international standards by treating education and teaching in this country the way they are treated in high-achieving nations around the world."--Linda Darling-Hammond, 2009 NEA Friend of Education

2009 RA Sights & Sounds--Dennis Van Roekel's Keynote Address

2009-07-13T23:12:00.000-05:00

"And contrary to what our opponents might say... NEA welcomes a national conversation about how to transform our school system... better ways to measure student learning... to improve the practice of our profession... to attract bright and talented students into teaching... and to confront the problems that plague poor and minority children in struggling schools."--NEA President Dennis Van Roekel's keynote address on July 3.

2009 RA Sights & Sounds--Arne Duncan

2009-07-13T23:11:00.000-05:00

"The President and I have both said repeatedly that we are not going to impose reform but rather work with teachers, principals, and unions to find what works."-Secretary of Education Arne Duncan

2009 RA Sights & Sounds-OEA Night Out

2009-07-13T23:10:00.005-05:00

The 2009 Oklahoma Night Out was a ballgame. We started out in the bright, warm sun, but as soon as it went down, it got cool--mid 60's. Unfortunately for San Diego fans, the Padres' bats were just as cold as they lost 6-1 to Houston.

2009 RA Sights & Sounds--Campaigning

2009-07-13T20:44:00.004-05:00

OEA members campaigning for Mustang teacher Greg Johnson, who was running for, and was elected to, the NEA Executive Committee.

NEA Human and Civil Rights Banquet-Honoring Clara Luper

2009-07-03T01:23:00.007-05:00

These pictures are from the 2009 NEA Human and Civil Rights banquet where Mrs. Clara Luper was the recipient of the Rosa Parks award. Both Vicki Vaughan and I were students of Mrs. Luper and we were very disappointed she was unable to attend do to illness.

The NEA asked me to accept the award in Mrs. Luper's behalf, and it was an honor and privilege to get to share with all of those present.

Flawed Research: Friedman Tax-Credit Reports

2009-06-22T09:36:00.006-05:00

Friedman Tax-Credit Reports Inaccurate and Unsubstantiated

Reports’ conclusions highly suspect, according to new review

EAST LANSING, Mi., June 22, 2009. – A recent series of reports focused on Georgia, Indiana and Montana conclude that programs awarding tax credits to donors funding private school vouchers will reduce government expenditures and make the finance system more efficient. A new review of the reports finds their conclusions highly suspect and sharply criticizes them for presenting unsubstantiated claims and failing to adequately consider short- and long-term costs of such tax-credit programs.

The reports are The Fiscal Impact of Tax-Credit Scholarships in Montana and The Fiscal Impact of Tax-Credit Scholarships in Georgia, and The Fiscal Impact of a Corporate & Individual Tax-Credit Scholarship Program on the State of Indiana. All three are published by the Friedman Foundation, a think tank which advocates free-market approaches to education. The three reports were reviewed for the Think Twice project by Luis Huerta of Teachers College, Columbia University.

Tax-credit voucher programs – sometimes dubbed neovouchers – provide a non-refundable tax credit to individuals or corporations contributing to non-profit corporations, which then distribute the money to students attending private schools. These neovouchers (often called “scholarships” in the state laws) now exist in six states—Arizona, Pennsylvania, Florida, Rhode Island, Iowa, and Georgia—and others, including Indiana and Montana, are considering them.

The three Friedman reports claim that implementing such programs would result in a net financial saving to the states. They base their conclusions, Huerta observes, on assumptions about the sensitivity of public school revenues and expenditures to enrollment declines, as well as assumptions about a pent-up demand for publicly funded private school choice and the nature and degree of supply and demand pressures. Huerta tests all these assumptions and finds them to be largely groundless and frequently at odds with established research.

In fact, Huerta notes that the reports’ use of research is largely confined to work from advocacy groups like the Friedman Foundation itself. He observes that this “insular approach further calls into question the validity of the new reports’ conclusions.” While the report on Indiana offers a “more thoughtful” approach to research, Huerta continues, the literature it cites is poorly used and doesn’t clearly support the report’s estimates and conclusions.

Huerta’s review hits particularly hard on the reports’ failure to consider key factors concerning private school supply and demand if neovoucher programs were to be implemented. Specifically, these factors are crucial to the reports’ analyses, and the review shows them to be highly problematic. Similarly, the reports fail to adequately account for the additional expenditures of a tax-credit program when it subsidizes families who were going to choose a private school anyway, making their expenditure calculations almost worthless.

“Policymakers should be cautioned to look beyond the seductive promises of increased fiscal savings and efficiency, which are unsubstantiated and inaccurately estimated in these reports,” Huerta concludes. “Instead, policymakers should seek more balanced and empirically robust assessments that would allow them to make informed decisions about how to proceed with effective school reform polices.”

Find Luis web at: www.greatlakescenter.org.

Good-bye Pookie

2009-06-19T18:33:00.004-05:00

Yesterday evening, Katherine and I said good-bye to Pookie, our 13 year-old golden retriever. Pookie became sick a few days ago and her condition deteriorated so quickly that we had her euthanized to ease her suffering.

Pookie came to us when she was just about two years old. She came from less than ideal conditions, but for the most part, adjust well and became a beloved member of our family. In the photo of her, I believe you can see the contentment in her face. We will miss her.

Flawed Research: Preschool Juggernaut by Chester Finn

2009-06-18T09:22:00.006-05:00

Reroute the Preschool Juggernaut is a new book published online by the Hoover Institution and authored by the Fordham Institution’s Chester Finn. It is an inaccurate and poorly reasoned attack on the movement to secure all children a good preschool education. The book cherry-picks a few weak studies to fit its preconceptions, and it builds the case for targeted programs based on errors, exaggeration, misrepresentation, and logical inconsistency. Below, I set forth 14 points to consider which together demonstrate these flaws and explain why an even-handed review of all costs and benefits tends to support preschool for all.

New Report on Charter Schools and Student Achievement

2009-06-16T09:08:00.004-05:00

Charter Schools Found Not To Have Raised Student Achievement Significantly

The Washington Times (6/16, Billups) reports, "Even as the president has touted the growth of charter schools and his education secretary has decried state caps on their numbers, a new study from Stanford University has found that the nation's charter schools have not significantly raised student achievement when compared with traditional public schools. The study of collective reading and math progress in 2,403 charter schools in 15 states and cities, including the District of Columbia was released Monday by researchers at Stanford's Center for Research on Education Outcomes (CREDO)." Findings "showed that almost half of the charter schools produced results similar to those from comparable public schools, and schools producing worse results than the traditional schools outnumbered those with better numbers by more than 2 to 1."

My Summer Reading Recommendations

2009-06-15T09:32:00.005-05:00

Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption by Stephen King: You can see this movie played over and over on tv but put it on your reading list. This was originally published as a novella in Different Seasons. I usually enjoy reading the book before the movie but this is one was an exception to my rule--I had no idea it was a work of Stephen King. Getting narration from Red's point of view is very special. This novella is only 106 pages long but it is well worth it.

A Painted House by John Grisham: This isn't a legal thriller and is vastly different from Grisham's original works. It is a coming of age story told by a 7 year old Arkansas boy as his family works to get the years cotton harvested. A great read.

Three Nights in August by Buzz Bissinger: A must read for Cardinal baseball fans--especially for those who have a tough time figuring out what manager Tony LaRussa is thinking. It provides tremendous insight into the game of baseball during a three game series with the Chicago Cubs.

Would You Teach Here for $125,000?

2009-06-11T14:03:00.005-05:00

The Equity Project charter school in New York City’s Washington Heights will open this fall with 120 5th graders chosen by lottery. Preference was given to students from surrounding neighborhoods and to weak academic performers. Most children will be from low-income Hispanic families. The school will grow to 480 children in Grades 5 to 8, with 28 teachers. The eight teachers who will open the school were selected in a nationwide search and will be paid a $125,000 annual salary, with potential bonuses in the second year. [Full Article]

More on Western Heights

2009-06-04T09:10:00.002-05:00

Western Heights and its data system are featured in an article by Ed Week.

Western Heights Acknowledges Dropouts

2009-06-03T09:28:00.004-05:00

This story appeared in the Oklahoman today. Western Heights Superintendent Joe Kitchens is an OEA member and strong advocate for public schools.

District’s telling symbol Western Heights’ dropouts gone but not forgotten

By Christy Watson

Most everything about the Western Heights High School graduation was typical. Valedictorian Ashley Ozment spoke of good memories and exciting futures. The band played "Rise and Shine” in tribute to the graduates. And Principal Jean Adams offered words of wisdom and encouragement.

But as the 133 graduates made their way across the Cox Convention Center stage and back to their seats, they had to pass by what made the ceremony most unusual: empty chairs. One for each of the 56 former Western Heights students the school counted as Class of 2009 dropouts.
At some point during the past four years, 339 students were part of the Class of 2009, Superintendent Joe Kitchens explained to graduates and the crowd. School officials confirmed that 146 of those students ended up at another school. Four received a GED. That left the 133 graduates and 56 students the school officially counts as dropouts. They were gone but not forgotten. They still had chairs.

Kitchens is frustrated at the district’s 29 percent dropout rate. But two years ago, the rate was 40 percent. In real numbers, 97 kids from the Class of 2007 dropped out. That fell to 81 last year. Behind those numbers are real kids with a shot at a better future.
In a few years, all Oklahoma schools will have to follow the more rigorous dropout formula Western Heights has embraced. Will all be as brutally truthful?

Western Heights is a district well known for its impressive student data system. The data are telling. Students who didn’t begin ninth grade at Western Heights dropped out at twice the rate of other students. These mobile students also failed classes at twice the rate of their peers.
Those figures mean little without action. "We know who the mobile students are and we know when they come into our school system,” Kitchens said. "It is our job to effectively identify those students and put people out there who are specifically charged with helping them the day they enter our school system.” It’s working.

Kitchens acknowledges the pressure that his focus on dropouts puts on school staff. Despite some criticism about the empty chair display, he isn’t ignoring the success of graduates. Most have college plans, and some already have several hours of college credit through a partnership with Oklahoma City Community College. But he doesn’t want parents and patrons to miss the big picture. With an entire section of empty chairs at graduation, that picture was impossible to ignore.

Watson is an editorial writer for The Oklahoman.

Secretary Duncan's Response to "The Condition of Education"

2009-06-02T11:22:00.004-05:00

United States Secretary of Education Arne Duncan has issued the following statement in response to “The Condition of Education” report for 2009 released today by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES):

“These findings clearly show the need for us to make college available to all young people and adults and the bottom line benefits of a higher education. Over the last three decades immediate college enrollment increased for all income levels, although we still need to help close the gap between those who need financial help and those who don’t. The enrollment gap between students from low- and high-income families shrunk by nearly 50 percent, which means more low-income students are accessing college. This is extremely encouraging, as they have the potential to lift families out of circumstances of poverty. The financial advantages provided by a college education are clear. Young people with a bachelor’s degree earn twice as much as those without a high school diploma, according to this research.

President Obama has set a goal that by 2020, America will once again have the highest proportion of college graduates in the world. This requires more college enrollment right out of high school and more adults going back to college as our workforce reinvents itself. Stimulus funds and our proposed 2010 budget are targeted to do just that by increasing access to college and reducing high school and college dropout rates.

While the findings of the 2009 Condition of Education report show that young students are showing some progress, we can’t overlook the fact that adults need more help in preparing for the work world or further education.

As I reflect on these findings, I am confident that we are on the right course as the Administration implements a comprehensive cradle-to-career education agenda to prepare our citizenry to compete in the global economy. Every single child deserves the very best education possible and our job is to give it to them.”

The Condition of Education 2009 summarizes important developments and trends in education using the latest available data. To view the report, visit <http://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/>.

The Condition of Education 2009

2009-06-01T11:25:00.004-05:00

An interesting article about the new National Center for Education Statistics report.

Washington Post: A Changing Student Body
(Maria Glod, News, National)
“Public school enrollment across the country is hitting a record this year with just less than 50 million students, and classrooms are becoming more diverse, largely because of growth in the Latino population, according to a new federal report.”

OEA Educators and Clergy Conference

2009-05-28T09:20:00.009-05:00

The 2nd annual Educators and Clergy Conference was held earlier this spring and more than 100 people -- teachers, administrators and clergy -- attended. The Conference topic was how schools and churches can work together to battle the dropout problem.

Some faith-based organizations have programs for kids while other groups and schools are looking for help and direction in this area. The speakers shared successes and challenges of their programs and also heard from representatives from the First Amendment Center about how programs can legally assist schools.

Speakers pictured above are of OEA Vice-President Becky Felts, Reverend George Young, Tulsa Schools Superintendent Keith Ballard, Charles Haynes, Senior Scholar at the First Amendment Center, Patrick McPherson of Lawton, Howard Hendricks the Director of the Oklahoma Department of Human Services, Richard Klinge of Catholic Charities, Julie Roberson of St. Luke's Methodist Church and Officer Wayland Cubit of the Oklahoma City Police.

2009 OEA Friends of Education

2009-05-27T13:39:00.007-05:00

The 2009 OEA Friends of Education are Rick George, Dr. Lisa Connery and Chuck Pack. The three honorees were the proponents of the HOPE ballot initiative that is now State Question 744.

Support for HOPE

2009-05-22T05:33:00.000-05:00

This blog entry was written by Dr. Kurt Hochenauer and lends support to the HOPE ballot initiative.

History clearly shows Oklahoma has never funded education at adequate levels, but that doesn’t stop some legislators from working diligently against appropriating more money for the state’s schools and teachers.

A resolution passed by the state Senate Wednesday is directly aimed at the HOPE ballot measure, according to a news report. The resolution puts a measure on the 2010 ballot that, if passed, would supposedly make sure the state government can continue to fund education at inadequate levels even if HOPE passes as well. (Full Post)

Teacher Voice Not Silenced & We Need a Veto

2009-05-21T10:04:00.005-05:00

As the 2009 legislative session comes to a close, we need to continue to be vigilant about so-called "education reform" getting placed into bills at the last minute. First, a victory-- House Bill 1935 threatened to silence the teacher voice by removing teachers and retired teachers from the Teacher Retirement System Board.

A big thank you goes out to all the Democratic Senators and Republican Senators Harry Coates, Patrick Anderson and Jonathan Nichols for voting no and stopping the passage of HB 1935 on the Senate floor.

Veto SB 394 Notification bill still awaits action by the Governor

We also need to contact Governor Henry and ask him to veto Senate Bill 394. It passed out of the House last week and is still awaiting action from the Governor. SB 394 will:

*Move the notification date for teacher contract renewals from April 10th to the first Monday in June.

*Teachers may not find out if they are employed or not by the district until it is too late to reasonably find other employment.

It looks like the legislative session will end this Friday, a week early, based on an agreement by all involved.

More Flawed Research on Milwaukee Voucher Study

2009-05-19T09:42:00.001-05:00

VOUCHER STUDY’S APPROACH AND OUTCOMES QUESTIONED

Review concludes that positive tests-score effects of voucher competition on Milwaukee public schools are very small at best

EAST LANSING, MI (May 18, 2009)—A recent report contends that competition from Milwaukee’s private school voucher program for low-income families has benefited Milwaukee public schools. A Think Twice review of that report raises a number of questions about its statistical methods and concludes that any positive effect of competition is very small, if it exists at all.

The report, The Effect of Milwaukee’s Parental Choice Program on Student Achievement in Milwaukee Public Schools, was written for the School Choice Demonstration Project at the University of Arkansas. It was reviewed for the Think Twice think tank review project by Gregory Camilli of Rutgers University, an expert in the use of statistics and measurement in social science research.

Camilli points out that the largest competition benefit emphasized in the report was obtained with no controls, but also that these benefits were small from a practical perspective. Moreover, when statistical controls are used, no statistically or practically significant competition benefits were found. Those controls essentially account for whether there is in fact private school competition for a public school student (that is, the effects of grade and year are distinguished from the effect of competition).

Despite the questions Camilli raises about the report, he commends it for clearly and thoroughly presenting its findings and for presenting its methods and statistical models clearly.

Camilli concludes, “Before the results of this study can effectively inform the decision of whether to expand or reduce the size of the voucher program in Milwaukee, a number of issues need resolution. Most importantly, the use of uncontrolled estimates requires justification.”
Find Gregory Camilli’s review on the web at: http://www.greatlakescenter.org.

Education Reform:Let Your Voice be Heard

2009-05-18T05:37:00.000-05:00

Your Chance to Weigh in on Education Reform!

U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan has embarked on a cross-country “listening tour.” In announcing the tour, the Secretary has said, “As we prepare for the reauthorization of No Child Left Behind, I want to hear from classroom teachers and other educators, parents and students, business people and citizens. What’s working, and what’s not? What do we need to do that we’re not doing, and what do we need to stop doing – or do differently?”

Secretary Duncan is also requesting feedback through the Department of Education’s website. Each week, the Secretary will pose a different question for consideration. This week’s question:

Many states in America are independently considering adopting internationally-benchmarked, college and career-ready standards. Is raising standards a good idea? How should we go about it?

Weigh in with your thoughts on this important topic and check back each week to see the latest questions. For information on NEA’s position on reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act/No Child Left Behind, visit the NEA website.

Budget Agreement Supplants Education Dollars and Ignores the Intent of the Federal Stimulus Package

2009-05-15T17:04:00.002-05:00

Today’s announced budget agreement is very disheartening for common education and higher education. While both will receive small increases, federal stimulus money that was intended for education is being used to supplant shortfalls in state education funding and shore up other agencies.

Of the $474 million Congress is sending for education in Oklahoma (not counting Title I and Special Education stimulus money), common ed and higher ed will receive a combined $71 million increase this budget year.

It’s a shell game to promise the public that federal money will be used for innovation in our schools when in fact we’re being held to the status quo. While it may be legal to supplant state money with stimulus dollars, it’s not right. Parents of public and higher education students were led to believe new money was coming. It’s sad that it won’t.

Flawed Research:Reason Report

2009-05-15T11:43:00.002-05:00

Reason Report Found to be Reckless and Irresponsible

New review concludes report is “a major step backwards”

EAST LANSING, MI (May 13, 2009)—Two weeks ago, the Reason Foundation released a report titled Weighted Student Formula Yearbook 2009, which advocates for a package of reforms concerning funding, governance and school choice. A new review of that report finds that it cherry-picks evidence, lumps many different strategies under a single reform umbrella, ignores contradictory findings, and in one third of its examples credits the reforms for outcomes that actually preceded the reforms.

The Yearbook was reviewed for the Think Twice think tank review project by Bruce Baker, a school finance expert who is an associate professor at Rutgers University.

Drawing from 15 case studies, the Yearbook relies on two underlying premises: (1) budgets should be allocated directly to schools within a district, with the amount based on each child’s needs; and (2) school principals should have full discretion on how to allocate those funds. The report examines 14 city school systems and one statewide one—Hawaii—that the report presents as reflecting “best practices” in implementing what the report calls Weighted Student Funding (WSF) reforms.

For many, the principle underlying WSF is appealing and common sense. The strategy is arguably intended to ensure that education funding adequately and fairly reflects the needs of students. In practice, however, the strategy has been found to be complex and its results much more ambiguous—and very much dependant on how it is implemented.

Baker finds that the Yearbook ignores all these complexities. Instead, the report mixes the basic WSF funding reform with other reforms ranging from site-based management and budgeting to school choice programs, including pilot, magnet and charter schools. In Baker’s words, the report “selects a hodge-podge of district reform strategies.” Some of those directly employ WSF but others “have little to do” with the funding strategy itself, or with district-wide reforms, Baker observes.

Baker’s review also finds that the Yearbook neglects “large bodies of relevant literature” and ignores “disagreeable findings in the literature it does cite.”

However, according to Baker, the most egregious flaw in the Yearbook is that in one-third of the examples it cites—five of the 15 case studies— “outcome successes mentioned actually occurred prior to the implementation” of the touted reforms. This is illustrated by the Reason press release promoting Yearbook, which points to impressive 2007-08 test score gains in Hartford, Conn., and attributes the gains to a change in policy directing 70% of resources to the classroom. Yet as the report itself notes, that WSF policy only began a year later, in 2008-09. Baker notes that it is difficult to conceive of a defense for such a claim.

“The report haphazardly aggregates a multitude of discrete policy issues under an umbrella labeled as WSF and deceptively suggests that all related policies are necessarily good—even going so far as to credit those policies for improvements that took place before the policies were implemented,” Baker writes. “The report then irresponsibly recommends untested, cherry-picked policy elements, some of which may substantially undermine equity for children in the highest-need schools within major urban districts.”

Instead of adding any serious information to the body of knowledge on WSF, Baker concludes, Reason’s Yearbook is “a major step backwards.”

Find Bruce Baker’s review on the web at: http://www.greatlakescenter.org.

Governor Henry on SB 834

2009-05-09T09:44:00.003-05:00

Gov. Henry vetoes legislation weakening state school standards
May 08, 2009

(Oklahoma City) Saying it would turn back the clock on decades of education reforms, Gov. Brad Henry today vetoed Senate Bill 834, legislation that would have allowed local school administrators to ignore more rigorous state standards and create their own academic benchmarks and rules.

Supporters of the measure claimed SB 834 would increase local control and give districts more flexibility, but in his veto message, the governor said the tradeoff would be weaker standards across the board.

“While local control is an important component of a successful public education system, it is also critical to have rigorous state standards in place to produce the highest quality graduates and ensure achievement and accountability throughout the system. Recognizing the importance of such uniform standards, public and private sector leaders have advocated and implemented numerous reforms in recent years to raise the academic bar for all students and schools,” said the governor.

“Senate Bill 834 would essentially turn back the clock on much of that important progress and weaken landmark reforms by allowing school administrators to create their own rules and ignore more rigorous state standards, including, but not limited to, the smaller class size mandates championed by former Gov. Henry Bellmon and Oklahoma voters in the historic passage of House Bill 1017 in 1990. SB 834 would also endanger such worthy programs as full-day kindergarten and alternative education in addition to making optional such critical personnel as school librarians and counselors.”

Gov. Henry also noted that SB 834 was not in the best interest of Oklahoma teachers because it weakened or eliminated rights and benefits provided to them, including due process rights guaranteed under the constitution.

“These provisions would also undermine ongoing efforts to attract and retain the best and brightest teachers in Oklahoma, something that is critically important, particularly for a state that is routinely recognized for having some of the best educators in the nation,” said the governor.

“At a time when we are working to send the signal that Oklahoma is serious about improving its education system and producing high-quality graduates who can compete in the 21st century global economy, it would be a disastrous step backward to approve legislation that weakens state standards, abolishes historic reforms and reduces rights and benefits provided to teachers.”

Thank Governor Henry

Governor Henry Vetoes SB 834

2009-05-08T17:39:00.004-05:00

Governor Affirms Commitment to Education with Veto

Thank Governor Henry

Governor Brad Henry’s veto of Senate Bill 834 today builds on his consistent support and dedication to creating great public schools in Oklahoma.

Senate Bill 834, commonly referred to as the school deregulation bill, proposed to deregulate public schools while providing no oversight or accountability for school administrators or school boards. Mandates like class size limits, adequate libraries, salaries above the state minimum, alternative education programs and school counselors could have been ignored under SB 834.

“The Governor recognized that it is the classroom teacher that has the most impact on student learning. After all, if you destroy the soul of teachers, it is the kids who are impacted,” said Roy Bishop, Oklahoma Education Association President.

The bill has also drawn much criticism from a concerned public because it could have eliminated the right of the public to have input on district policies. “It would be counterproductive to exclude parents, students and teachers from this process. Transferring authority to any one party is not the way to make sustainable education reforms,” said Bishop.

2009-05-07T09:37:00.003-05:00

Here are some excerpts from from an Associated Press Story as we wonder why the State Chamber wants to roll back the gains they supported as a result of HB 1017. And don't forget to email the Governor and ask him to veto SB 834.

However, Oklahoma Education Association President Roy Bishop said the bill is "political gimmickry" that will allow school districts to overturn 20 years of progress in education. He was referring to House Bill 1017, landmark legislation of 1990 that set state standards for schools and increased funding to school districts.

The GOP-backed education plan would do away with a process whereby school boards must negotiate with unions that win a majority of teachers wanting representation. Bishop said it would eliminate current due process protections for teachers.

"We support investments in real school improvements and oppose this reckless political gimmickry," he said.

Bishop said the legislation does nothing to improve school funding. "We are so underfunded it is a national joke and this is what they come up with," he said.

Supporters said the bill keeps the minimum salary requirement for teachers, but Bishop argued that more than 74 percent of teachers make above the minimum.

Are Charter Schools Better than Public Schools?

2009-05-06T09:12:00.005-05:00

While you read about the new review, please email Governor Henry and ask him to veto SB 834.

Milwaukee Charter School Report Generally Sound

Review of report raises key questions but praises contribution

EAST LANSING, MI (May 5, 2009) – A recently released report on Milwaukee charter schools found that charter school students showed no significant gains in reading scores and only small increases in math scores when compared with students in traditional public schools. The report also concluded that there is no evidence that competition from charter schools impacts the performance of traditional public schools. A new review of the report raises validity questions but notes strengths in the methods used. When the results are considered together with the large body of research on charter schools, the conclusion that charter schools should not be expected to have large effects on achievement in urban schools is found by the reviewer to be reasonable.

The report “The Impact of Milwaukee Charter Schools on Student Achievement” was published by the Brookings Institution. It was reviewed for the Think Twice think tank review project by Robert Bifulco, Associate Professor of Public Administration at the Maxwell School of Syracuse University.

Probably the most noteworthy finding from the report is that, even though no significant benefit in reading scores was associated with charter attendance, the report did find a small but statistically significantly higher math test score improvement among charter school students compared with conventional public school students. Yet it also found that those gains were largely limited to earlier years of the charter school program and to students in their first year in a charter school.

In his review, Bifulco observes that the statistical methods used in the Brookings report have been used in many other charter school studies and have been endorsed by a panel of experts on school choice research. Despite their “widely recognized strengths,” however, these same methods “have come under sharp criticism,” he notes, and should probably not be used by themselves. For instance, Bifulco points out that the study’s charter school sample excludes students who have attended only charter schools, who may be different in important, unmeasured ways from those (included) students who transferred in or out of charters during their schooling years.

A further concern, acknowledged but not fully resolved by the Brookings authors, is that Wisconsin changed its achievement test midway through the study. Given these and other “threats to the validity of the estimates presented in this report, robustness checks and alternative estimates are important.”

The study results, Bifulco concludes, “are most informative when considered in the context of the larger body of research on charter schools”—namely, that charters produce “at best modest effects on student performance.” In that light, he says, the authors are wise to point out that charters offer “no silver bullet” in the school-reform arsenal.

Find Robert Bifulco’s review on the web at: http://www.greatlakescenter.org/

SB 834:On the Governor's Desk

2009-05-05T11:05:00.004-05:00

SB 834 Goes to the Governor with Saturday Deadline

After SB 834 passed the Senate last Wednesday, the bill was held for reconsideration by Sen. Ford. The senators voted yesterday not to reconsider the bill, and 834 will go to the Governor today.

The Governor will have 5 days to veto or sign SB 834. The deadline will be this Saturday, May 9th.

Now is our final chance to act! We need as many calls and emails to the Governor as possible this week. Click here to compose and send an email to the governor.

Ask Governor Henry to Veto SB 834

2009-04-19T13:13:00.003-05:00

Email Governor Henry and ask him to veto SB 834.

Tulsa Rally Against SB 834-Ask the Governor for a Veto

2009-04-18T19:50:00.005-05:00

Four hundred people, including teachers from several districts, attended the anti- SB 834 rally held in Tulsa on Thursday night. The rally got tremendous press coverage, including one station's helicopter, as a number of elected representatives spoke before the crowd. You can go to Channel Six and see a good video about the event.

Greer Nichols, Broken Arrow President, got the crowd fired up and chants of veto could be heard throughout the rally. Greer turned it over to the speakers that included Representatives Jeannie McDaniel, Eric Proctor and Lucky Lamons, and Senator Kenneth Corn who is running for Lt. Governor. Also speaking were TCTA President Denzel Kesterson and me.

You can contact Governor Henry and ask him to veto the bill by going here.

SB 834: House Approval as a Bad Bill Moves Forward

2009-04-16T13:03:00.005-05:00

It's time for everyone to contact the Governor and ask him to veto SB 834.

Senate Bill 834 passed the House with a vote of 60-39. The bill is now headed back to the Senate. Senators have the option of accepting the amendments made in the house or rejecting the changes and sending the bill to conference. If the changes are accepted, the bill will head to the Governor's desk. We believe the Senators will accept the changes and the bill could be on the Governor's desk as early as next week. We need you to click here and tell the Governor to veto SB 834. Governor Henry has been a true champion of education. He is our ally not our enemy.

Only one Republican voted in the best interests of kids, teachers and communities--Representative Lisa Billy. Please contact Representative Billy and thank her for her courage to do what was and is right.

SB 834: Putnam City Protests Deregulation Bill

2009-04-14T09:11:00.008-05:00

The Putnam City Association of Classroom Teachers and community members stood at major intersections during rush hour to alerting the public to SB 834, the bad deregulation bill sitting in the House of Representatives. Pictured above are those who gathered at NW Highway and Meridian.

As thousands of cars drove by, many drivers honked their horns and waved in support of the effort. The smiles and waves of the drivers made it all worth while and when traffic stopped at the lights, PCACT members handed out information on the bill to give many more details about its impact on kids and teachers.

The bill will be up for a vote sometime this week. Please continue to lobby your State Representatives, even if they have given you a firm answer. Make sure they continue to pledge a no vote. If they support SB 834, let them know this is a bad even with the recent amendments. Click here to email your representative.

Not on the Test--Tom Chapin

2009-04-13T23:00:00.004-05:00

Since it's test time, here is Tom Chapin to put everthing into perspective with the best song and video. Tom can be found here.

SB 834: Coming up for a Vote in the House

2009-04-11T08:56:00.002-05:00

NCLB Issues: Restructuring Schools Won’t Raise Student Achievement

2009-04-08T10:14:00.007-05:00

A policy brief by William J. Mathis debunks the NCLB school restructuring alternatives.

RESTRUCTURING SCHOOLS WON’T RAISE STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT

Research predicts failure for NCLB’s ultimate sanctions, concludes new report

EAST LANSING, MI, (April 8, 2009)—A new policy brief finds little evidence that sweeping school restructuring—mandated by the federal government for so-called failing schools—will raise student achievement.

The report is titled NCLB’s Ultimate Restructuring Alternatives: Do They Improve the Quality of Education? It was written by William J. Mathis, adjunct associate professor of school finance at the University of Vermont and a superintendent of schools. The report was released today by the Great Lakes Center for Education Research and Practice.

Mathis’s brief examines the impact of the specific school restructuring approaches required under the federal No Child Left Behind law. Under the law, enacted in 2001, schools are required to be restructured if they fail to make “adequate yearly progress” (measured by meeting test score targets) for six consecutive years.

NCLB school restructuring can take one of the following forms: takeover of the school by the state; turning management of the school over to a private firm; shutting down and reopening as a charter school; or reconstitution of the school by replacing some or all administrators, staff, or faculty. A fifth option provided under the law endorses “any other major restructuring of a school’s governance arrangement.”

The brief reviews the existing body of research on each of the five restructuring options and finds that “there is little or no evidence to suggest that any of these options delivers the promised improvements in academic achievement” but notes that “negative side effects are frequently recorded including increased segregation, substantial, short-term drops in achievement scores and organizational instability.”

Mathis concludes: “Given that these approaches are being proposed for the nation’s most troubled schools, the solutions [currently set forth by NCLB] are likely to be woefully inadequate” and that “reliance on these restructuring options could actually deter schools from exploring more promising approaches of achieving the goal of a sound basic education for every child.”

In light of such findings, Mathis recommends against relying on restructuring sanctions to promote school improvement and encourages the support of research on the effectiveness of other school improvement strategies. He also recommends support for strategies that have been shown increase school improvement including early education, small school communities, and strong counseling and social support systems for students.

Find William Mathis’s report, NCLB’s Ultimate Restructuring Alternatives: Do They Improve the Quality of Education? on the web at: http://www.greatlakescenter.org.

SB 834: Contact School Board Members

2009-04-07T14:02:00.003-05:00

You can help make a difference with SB 834. Here's the latest:

SB 834: A Bad Bill Moves Forward, Part 2

2009-04-03T14:14:00.007-05:00

SB 834 Passes House Education Committee

Signs You Gave to Representatives Who Opposed SB 834 Were Ordered Taken Down By House Leadership On the Morning of the Vote

SB 834 passed out of the House Education Committee with a party line vote of 9-5. The bill is headed to a vote on the House floor. Several amendments were made to the bill. However, none of the rights that provide a voice for teachers were reconsidered. There are still no requirements for:

*Collective bargaining

*FAIR due process

*Guaranteed salaries beyond the state minimum.

Committee members added language that simply retains the informal pre-termination hearing before the school board for career teachers, however that EXCLUDES:

*Trial de novo

*Your right to bring forth witnesses

*Your right to submit evidence

*Your right to confront and cross exam witnesses

Your career would be dependent on a simple vote of the school board without any due process safeguards. Other amendments were made to the bill. The bill now requires:

*Certified teachers

*Payroll deduction of dues

*Districts to maintain current curriculum standards including minimum graduation requirements

*Continuing education courses for school board members

WHAT DO WE DO NOW?

*Find out if your superintendent and board members are for or against 834. Many legislators have repeatedly said that superintendents and school board members are pushing SB 834.

--If your superintendent and/or school board members support the bill let your co-workers and community members know that the administrators support legislation detrimental to public education.

--If your superintendent or school board member opposes the bill, inform your legislative and political organizing specialist and your legislators.

*Attend local school board meetings and try to get on the agenda to speak about your position on SB 834.

*Continue to correspond directly with your representatives by phone and email. Click here to let your house member know you oppose this bill.

We are making a difference and we will defeat this bill.

SB 834: State School Board Members Opposed

2009-03-30T08:47:00.008-05:00

Not all school board members are in favor of deregulation.

"It's going to take us back 30 years," said member Gayle Miles-Scott during a long discussion of several bills that would remove State Department of Education regulations and control. "What are they drinking?"

Sue Arnn, another member, replied: "Republican whiskey, that's what they're drinking."

"These are people who never liked [former Gov.] Henry Bellmon and [House bill] 1017," said member Tim Gilpin. "We're going to do more with less by giving back to the local districts, who are the ones we're having to audit, you see."

"Every one of these kids is going to be taught differently, and that's absurd," Miles-Scott said. "What are they doing? They're totally destroying education."

SB 834 will come up for a vote on Wednesday. The following is a list of members of the House Common Education Committee. contact these legislators at 1-800-522-8502 and encourage them to vote NO on SB 834.

Ann Coody, Chair
Sally Kern, Vice Chair
Gus Blackwell
Samson Buck
Ed Cannaday
Doug Cox
David Dank
Joe Dorman
Tad Jones
Jeannie McDaniel
Earl Sears
Jabar Shumate
Daniel Sullivan

OEA Lobby Day:SB 834

2009-03-26T10:20:00.005-05:00

Over three hundred OEA members attended the OEA Lobby Day at the Capitol. Pictured with our members are Representative Mike Jackson, Senator Jim Wilson and Representative Mike Brown.

The focus of the day was SB 834, the deregulation bill that will turn all of our local school districts into charter districts over a six year period.

OEA/Teachers Lie

Some of the legislators had a new twist to tell our members. Besides the Republican party line of districts shouldn't have to follow "unfunded mandates" many of our members were told that "OEA lies" to them and in another instance, a legislator tried to recruit OEA members to a competing organization.

Our members did get angry, but not with me--the OEA--the 8th grade teacher from Stillwater--and all of our other teachers and support professionals who make up the OEA--they got angry with their legislators and they are going to take that anger back home with them and share it with their peers.

Unanswered Question

What would you be doing differently to impact student learning that you aren't able to do now???????????????????????????????????

There is nothing but silence from Republican Legislators, superintendents and school board members when they're asked that question.

For coverage of the event check out these sites: Oklahoman KSBI Joplin Globe.

Listed below are my remarks at the Lobby Day press conference

Good morning and welcome to the Capitol.

I’m Roy Bishop, President of the Oklahoma Education Association. Hundreds of school employees are here today to show their commitment to a great public school for every child and to let our elected leaders know that SB 834 is bad for schools.

I know how difficult it is for them to leave their students, especially at this time of year, so I want to thank them for being here and let them know I appreciate their commitment to Oklahoma education.

We are here today for the children of Oklahoma. The greatest impact on our students is to have a quality teacher and the tools and resources to help children learn. SB 834, the deregulation of our schools, will negatively impact our kids in a variety of ways including larger class size, diminishing teacher certification and quality, and it will also allow districts to ignore caps on administrative expenses with less money going to the classroom where our students need it the most.

If this bill passes, high standards for our students and a quality nationally known teacher preparation system are in jeopardy, and will be left to the political whim of local school boards and administrators.

An example of that political whim took place just a few months ago. A young teacher from a small western Oklahoma school came to the Capitol, at the request of a lawmaker, to tell about the number of days his students were out of the class for school activities.
His reward for honestly exposing the rampant abuse of the 10 day activity rule for students was to be called into the Superintendent’s office, have his job threatened, and then be placed on a disciplinary plan for improvement. How is it good for kids that a quality teacher is placed on a plan for improvement for speaking out about poor administrative practice?

Oklahomans can expect more of the same with the passage of SB834.

Oklahoma has a nationally known teacher preparation system. According to “Quality Counts”, we are ranked in the top 10 nationally in “Teacher Quality.”

For too long we have struggled to keep our good teachers in Oklahoma. SB 834 will allow for already low salaries to be reduced and will put a premium on hiring low cost non-certified teachers. This will be at the expense of our students because the number one determinant of student success is the quality of the teacher in the classroom.

The proponents of SB 834 state that these reforms are needed to allow local boards and administrators to put changes in place in their districts.

There is nothing today, or in the past, that would have stopped a school district from making changes it wanted to make. Our current deregulation law does just that. If they have a program to impact student learning, why haven’t they tried implementation?

SB 834 will also allow local school districts to do away with the collective bargaining process. This takes away the only opportunity for teachers and support professionals to be heard. Why would they want to do that? Our working conditions are a student’s learning conditions--they impact student learning conditions.

And in Oklahoma, the collective bargaining law is only advisory; it allows the local school district to impose whatever they wish at the end of the process.

You’re going to hear a lot about not being able to fire bad teachers—that’s just not right and it makes me angry.

Existing law allows all districts to hire teachers on temporary contracts for 3 semesters. These temporary contracts have an ending date and no action has to be taken to end employment – it is automatic.

In addition, the existing law includes a 3 year probationary period where the district is required to provide reason, and notice, of non-renewal or dismissal. For probationary teachers, the school board is the final authority.

We should probably be asking what is wrong with an administrator who can’t decide if a teacher is “bad” during this 4 ½ year period when they pretty much have no restraints. Think about the impact on kids when an administrator doesn't do his or her job.

And finally, mark my words, if this deregulation bill passes, it will be even easier for Superintendents and Boards of Education to mismanage school funds. One only has to look at the Marble City fiasco to see the impact of mismanagement and the impact that lost money had on kids.

For all of these reasons, and many more, SB 834 is bad for kids, bad for teachers and support professionals, bad for education and bad for Oklahoma.

2009 Outreach to Teach

2009-03-24T12:40:00.005-05:00

On March 6th, SOEA members and OEA staff participated in the 2009 Outreach to Teach project. This years school was Pleasant Hill located in the Mid-Del School District. Students and staff spent a day cleaning up the grounds, painting the walls, fixing playground equipment to provide a better atmosphere for students.

Lauren Folks, SOEA President and her officers, did a great job of getting students involved from all over the state. The kids were so excited to have us there and the parents who saw what was going expressed their appreciation to many of us.

SB 834 Warning & OEA Lobby Day

2009-03-23T13:40:00.003-05:00

STOP SB 834! Join Us for a Day at the Capitol - Lobby Day, March 25th

Let your voice be heard loud and clear at the OEA Lobby Day, March 25, at the State Capitol. No matter what size of a school district you work in, no matter what your job in the district, it is vital you let the legislature know how important education is. Come and be a part of this day for education at the State Capitol.

Registration for OEA Lobby Day will begin on the Second Floor Rotunda at 8 a.m. We'll start with a briefing at 9 a.m. on the Second Floor. Lunch will be provided and we want you to invite your legislators to join you for lunch at 11:30 a.m. Please register for Lobby Day on the OEA website so we know how many to plan for for lunch.

There is ample parking south and east of the Capitol. For a map of the Capitol grounds, visit www.lsb.state.ok.us and click on "Capitol Complex."

SB 834--A Bad Bill Moves Forward

2009-03-11T14:29:00.007-05:00

Yesterday, on a straight party line vote (R-D), the Senate passed SB 834 26-21 with one Democrat, Senator Paddock, out of town. The bill now goes to the House Education Committee.

This bill has direct implications for kids in the issues of class size, teacher certification, teacher quality through professional development, and alternative education just to name a few. How can those who supported it justify their vote?

Contact those Senators, with an R after their name, at the Senate website.

SB 834:Senator Ford Responds to the OEA

2009-03-09T09:58:00.006-05:00

From Senator Ford to his legislative colleagues: Attached is an “OEA Legislative Update” that was e-mailed to OEA members yesterday (Mar 4). This OEA update will generate many e-mails and phone calls from constituents. Following is a possible reply: Senate Bill 834 will eliminate many unfunded mandates that have hamstrung our local school districts. These mandates have negatively impacted their ability to develop innovative approaches and programs to ensure students will indeed master the skills and curriculum necessary to compete once they graduate—whether they go on to college, to a CareerTech, or straight into the workplace.

Again, I will ask, 1) Why don't you just fund the mandates you expect schools to follow or 2) Did you know Oklahoma already has a deregulation procedure in place?

OEA is working to defeat this measure, and has made erroneous claims that educators, who are among the 74 percent of teachers in Oklahoma that currently work for districts paying above the minimum salary schedule, may face thousands of dollars in pay cuts.

It is important to point out that these districts are paying above the minimum salary schedule because they have chosen to do so....

I wonder if Senator Ford knows that the percentage of total school spending going into teacher compensation has declined from 56.3% in 1995-96 to 43.5% in 2006-07.

Or, has the Senator sat at a meeting with a Superintendent who said, "I'll buy 5,000 rolls of toilet paper before I'll ever give you a dime of that money."

SB 834: "What are they thinking?"

2009-03-05T11:52:00.023-06:00

A few of the arguments OEA members are hearing from their legislators include some you just want to shake your head and wonder if they even realize what they've said. Let's take a look at the latest reasons for support:

1) By deregulating schools, districts can do away with unfunded mandates. Hmmm...think about this---the legislature passes mandates for schools and districts because they believe they're important, but won't fund them? Why don't our legislators just fund the mandates? Is this even worthy of debate?

2) Our teachers and support professionals have been told "locals like you" will get a say in how things are done. This bill removes the teacher and education employee voice from the process. Your district gets a say, but the teacher sure doesn't.

Keep checking back here for information or go to the Oklahomans Against SB 834 page for more dialogue.

RAA:John Glenn Elementary, Western Heights

2009-03-05T10:27:00.004-06:00

This RAA stop found us at John Glenn Elementary School in Western Heights. The teachers and kids just moved into the building this year and it's an awesome facility. Everyone is so proud of their new school.

The Cat read to a number of different classes and no matter how young or old they were, they all loved it. The teachers are doing an awesome job and are an example of the quality found in our classroom all across our state.

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss

2009-03-02T14:09:00.003-06:00

Today is the 105th anniversary of Dr. Seuss' birthday and we celebrated this occasion at Will Rogers Elementary School in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Today's event was put together by Brian Atkins, SOEA/OSU President. The kids and teachers all got a great chuckle as the Cat tried to find someone who could wiggle their ears--without their hands. One one young man did, everyone cheered his efforts.

All of the kids will receive a book from "Feed the Children" and they were all pretty excited as Brian, SOEA/OSU advisor Suzi Parson, OEA Communications Specialist Doug Folks and I passed out books for all the kids. Not to be left out were the Will Rogers teachers who all received a classroom performance chart and the 2009 RAA poster with co-chairs OSU's Zac Robinson and OU's Sam Bradford.

While the kids were disappointed to learn the Zac and Sam weren't able to be at the program (they are in class) I did get to share with the kids how good of students the 2 young men are and how reading has helped get them all the way to college. They all pledged to read, "each day and each night, (because) they know it's the key to growing up right."

While we won't have a program at the other Stillwater schools, all of the kids will be getting books courtesy of "Feed the Children" and Brian who is delivering all of them.

RAA:Lexington

2009-03-02T13:55:00.005-06:00

During our RAA trips, we were fortunate to be invited to Lexington Public Schools where we put on two programs for the kids. All of the students were great and we had another tremendous day. A special thanks to President Marcie Cole for all the work she does for her local, and a shout out to Cindy Williamson who helped put the program together and to Principal Butler for allowing us to visit a great school like Lexington.

Amendments to SB 834:Still a Bad Bill

2009-02-27T05:51:00.004-06:00

After passing the Senate Education Committee, there are new amendments for this bill that would not allow a school district to deregulate the minimum salary schedule, paying into the teacher's retirement system and continuing to participate in the state health insurance program.

These changes mean that Senator Ford and others are listening to your calls and emails. While the amendments change the original bill, Senate Bill 834 is still a bad bill for kids, teachers and schools.

Elimination of the class size rules makes it extremely difficult for all kids to have the attention they deserve. Class size is one of the most important issues for parents and teachers.

The use of non-certified teachers (not the same thing as highly qualified) and the elimination of professional learning opportunities are serious teacher quality issues impacting children. The single best determinant of a child's success in the classroom is the quality of the teacher.

The lifting of caps on a variety of costs measures, including restriction's on a districts carryover balance will ensure money won't go where it's needed most--to kids and their classrooms.

A bad bill is a bad bill. Please continue to contact your elected officials and voice your opposition to SB 834.

Sapulpa Rep Meeting:SB 834

2009-02-26T18:50:00.004-06:00

Last week, I visited Sapulpa where we spent a good deal of time discussing SB834 and its impact to our schools. The Building Reps were united in their opposition to this piece of legislation and are making their voices heard to their respective representatives.

Sapulpa President Carla Cale is doing a great job representing her members. Carla ran a very informative meeting while her BR's did a good job of representing their schools. After the meeting Carla, on my right, posed with me and OEA Communications Specialist Marty Bull (l) and Pat Smith (r) OEA Legislative and Political Organizer.

RAA:Butner

2009-02-24T22:00:00.005-06:00

OEA's Read Across America program made today's stop at Butner Elementary School in Cromwell. No matter what the size of the school, kids need to understand the importance of reading. And the kids were excited about the Cat sharing the stories about Dr. Seuss and following with the reading of "Green Eggs and Ham" that beat out "The Butter Battle Book" in a close vote.

Kids are great wherever we go and I see great things for Oklahoma. There are so many awesome teachers all across the state and they are providing our kids with the best possible education. Some of our districts have better access to resources compared to the larger districts, but our smaller schools find ways to get things done.

The kids, teachers, administrators and parents all take great pride in their school and community and Butner patrons were awesome today.

RAA:Meeker

2009-02-23T11:36:00.005-06:00

On Friday, the Cat and I presented the OEA program to students and teachers in Meeker. The kids were excited and we had a great time with them. When it came time for the students to select a book to read, for the first time in memory, the kids at Meeker selected Dr. Seuss' "The Butter Battle Book". Usually kids select "Green Eggs and Ham".

A special thanks to Ms. Duncan, Meeker's Elementary School Principal and teacher Joyce Flowers for putting the program together and to all the teachers and support professionals who viewed our shows.

Pictured with the Cat are Debbie Flowers, Jennifer Colvin , and Joyce Flowers.

2009 Western Region Leadership Conference

2009-02-21T08:36:00.001-06:00

Some of you may be wondering what took place at the Western Region Leadership Conference held in Albuquerque, New Mexico in the middle of January. Sadly, all I have is this 6 second video from the Minority Leadership Dinner before I became very ill and bed-ridden.

The OEA had 50 participants and many of our members and staff presented at the conference. All of the attendees had a great time with workshops and they also did a tremendous job in raising funds for the NEA Fund for Children and Public Education.

Oklahomans Against SB 834

2009-02-20T12:41:00.003-06:00

2009 RAA:Putnam City

2009-02-20T06:02:00.001-06:00

On Monday and Wednesday, OEA's Read Across America Program teamed up with new partner Feed the Children, to drop off thousands of books to metro-area students. Each student received their own book.

In the photos, the Cat in the Hat (OEA staffer Bruce Treadaway) greets students as he arrives at each school. The Cat comes via a Feed the Children truck loaded with books and is usually greeted by a number of students, pictured are from Mrs. Sloan's class at Overholser.

At Lake Park, Principal John Lunn poses with Donna McMullen's class and representatives from Feed the Children Erin Carlstrom, Gary Sloan, James Hart, me and the Cat.

In the final picture, Mrs. Slavin's class thanks us for their books

The program will continue throughout the rest of February and March and is the largest Read Across America Program in the Country.

SB-834:Deregulation

2009-02-19T05:30:00.003-06:00

If you like the situation America is in now because of banking and investment deregulation, imagine the price our schools will pay if Senate Bill 834 is passed. The school deregulation bill is headed to the Senate floor after it passed through the Senate Education Committee by a 7-6 party line vote. (R-D).

The Senators will vote on SB 834 in the coming weeks. The bill is this year’s end-all deregulation bill. It threatens your local association’s right to negotiate a contract and would eventually deregulate all Oklahoma Public Schools.

This bill eliminates the teacher voice and adversely impacts kids with no limits on class size, while doing away with certified teachers and teacher quality through up-to-date professional development.

By eliminating the teacher's voice and school employee's voice, we won't be able to bargain contracts and working conditions including salary, and health benefits. The bill also eliminates due process rights.

Supporters are telling us that "teachers will be taken care of" with this legislation, but it will destroy years of working relationships between superintendents, school boards and our local associations.

Tell your local senator that this is not good for our public schools and they need to vote no on deregulation.

2009 NFIE Banquet

2009-02-18T19:22:00.000-06:00

The first week in February was a busy one. As OEA members were contacting our congressional team from back home, Lori Burris and Becky Felts made stops at the offices of Senators Coburn and Inhofe and Representatives Boren, Cole and Fallin to discuss the Economic Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

During the week, the NEA Fund for Children and Education meeting and the NEA Board Meeting were held as well. And on Friday, February 6th, we attended the 2009 National Foundation for the Improvement of Education Banquet (NFIE).

The NEA Foundation presented its inaugural Award for Philanthropy in Public Education to Verizon Communications and its 2009 Award for Outstanding Service to Public Education to Sesame Workshop at its annual Salute to Excellence in Education awards gala held at the National Museum Building in Washington, DC. Known as the Academy Awards for public education, the Foundation’s gala attracted more than 900 leaders from public education, business, philanthropy and the government.

From Oklahoma and sitting in this photo are Don Linsenmeyer, Patrica and Shiela Tredway from American Fidelity, and standing are my wife Katherine, me, NEA Executive Committee member Carolyn Crowder, Lori Burris-NEA Director, Becky Felts-OEA VP, Gary Tredway (AF), and Greg Johnson-NEA Director.

Legislative Update-SB834

2009-02-13T10:39:00.006-06:00

School Deregulation bill hearing next week

Please tell the Senate members you are opposed to Senate Bill 834. The bill is this year’s end-all deregulation bill. It threatens your local association’s right to negotiate a contract and would eventually deregulate all Oklahoma Public Schools. In addition, you will lose the following rights:

*Due process

*No class size limitations

*No teacher quality

*Bargaining a contract

*Minimum salary schedule

*No guaranteed salary

*Health benefits

*Personal leave days

*Payroll deduction of dues.

This is part of the most recent OEA Legislative Update that went to our members on February 11th. We need you to be actively involved in the decisions made at the Capital and you do that by contacting your Senator and Representative and let them know how you feel about legislation that affects your students, your classroom and you.

Please make sure you address SB834. Under Oklahoma law, school districts already have the right to deregulate. This is unnecessary and is more of the same "so-called reform" that is bandied about when legislators don't want to address investing in our kids. Tell your Senators to vote no on SB834.

Don't forget about our OEA Lobby Day on March 25th. For more information and to register go here.

Investing in Education:Economic Recovery

2009-02-11T11:09:00.003-06:00

In a quote from the "Oklahoman" Scott Meacham said, "The governor had hoped avoid cutting education, health care, transportation and public safety, but because those agencies make up about 80 percent of the budget that no longer is an option. "

Supporting the economic recovery bill will save jobs and provide funding for all of our districts. Take action and let your voice be heard.

Be Heard: Economic Recovery Bill Moves to “Conference Committee”

2009-02-10T12:51:00.005-06:00

Your efforts paved the way for the Economic Recovery Bill to pass the Senate. At one point, education was going to be completely taken out of the bill. Your emails and phone calls replaced the majority of funding.

The House and Senate bills now move to a “conference committee,” which will work out differences between the two bills and bring a final agreement back to the House and Senate for a vote.

Contact your Members of Congress Today! Tell Members of the House and Senate to support as much money as possible for education in the final economic recovery package.

Economic Recovery--Contact Coburn and Inhofe

2009-02-09T16:49:00.006-06:00

Senator Coburn and Senator Inhofe need to hear from you-TELL THEM TO PASS THE ECONOMIC RECOVERY BILL.

Thanks to your e-mails from last week, the threatened cuts to education in the Senate economic recovery proposal were largely averted. A compromise reached this weekend leaves much of the education funding that flows directly to local school districts untouched.

This economic recovery package is very important. It will help save jobs and put more money immediately into struggling local economies. It will also reduce pressure on state budgets so more cuts to important programs can be avoided.

The package includes funding flexible funding for local school districts, increased funding for Title I and special education, and tax credits to help school districts finance school modernization and repair.

Encourage Senators to Pass the Economic Stimulus Package

2009-02-05T13:17:00.003-06:00

Take action! Tell Members of the Senate to pass the American Recovery and Reinvestment Bill. Senators Coburn and Inhofe need to hear from you. Let them know our schools need their support.

OEA Community Conversations:ELL Issues

2009-01-31T18:25:00.003-06:00

The OEA has initiated and participated in "community conversations” projects, which seek input and ideas from the community served by schools so the school can better understand and address the issues and concerns important to that community.

The first project involves Putnam City West High School and the Hispanic community. Listening to the concerns of parents and using bilingual communication allows for the opportunity to address needs in a non-intimidating fashion. Because of these conversations, parents and teachers more fully understand the barriers that language can play in impeding parental involvement. Parents want to be involved and want help because they want the best for their children and that means keeping them in school.

Safety is the Issue

2009-01-30T10:28:00.004-06:00

The safety of our children and staff is the most important issue and we can always find ways to make-up the days.

Oklahoma Initiative Petition Process Works

2009-01-27T11:01:00.006-06:00

In a recent piece in the Oklahoman, the OEA was acknowledged as a group that has been successful in getting an initiative petition (HOPE) to the ballot. The piece goes on to talk about how the process needs to be changed by lowering the signature number and/or increasing the time it takes to get the signatures.

Our process works now. If you have an issue people support, they will sign your petition.

Here is the excerpt about the OEA from the Oklahoman:

Our biggest concern with the process has centered on the number of signatures required, which varies depending on the purpose of the initiative but is always a big number. The Oklahoma Education Association, for example, needed 138,970 valid signatures for its petition seeking increased funding for public schools. It had no trouble meeting that threshold....[More than 238,000 signed the petition.]

Eliminating Tax Incentives Urged by George Kaiser

2009-01-26T23:43:00.001-06:00

Our elected leaders hear from a wealthy Oklahoman on doing away with some tax incentives. Will they act on his ideas? It will make for an interesting legislative session.

Listen up! Rational tax policy urged

Stop giving me tax breaks, the billionaire oil man told legislators. Now there's a new story for you. George Kaiser — arguably Tulsa's smartest and most generous man, and inarguably the richest — told a legislative committee on Thursday to cut tax incentives for the oil and gas industry.

Lesson Plans:2009 Stamps pt 1

2009-01-24T09:34:00.000-06:00

The first issues of the 2009 stamps include the 50th anniversary of Alaska statehood , 150th anniversary of Oregon Statehood, this year's Lunar New Year stamp featuring the Year of the Ox and a stamp commemorating Edgar Allan Poe. These stamps can lead to a number of lesson plans in geography, history, literature, and multi-cultural ideas just to name a few.

44 Presidents of the United States

2009-01-22T23:08:00.001-06:00

Enjoy the montage set to Ravel's Bolero.

Arne Duncan and the HELP Committee

2009-01-21T09:49:00.003-06:00

On January 13th, the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP-which includes Senator Coburn) held a hearing to consider the nomination of Arne Duncan as Secretary of Education. Here is a summary of that hearing.

The hearing was chaired by Senator Harkin (D-IA) in the absence of Senator Kennedy (D-MA). Also in attendance at the hearing were Senators Mikulski (D-MD), Reed (D-RI), Sanders (I-VT), Murray (D-WA), Enzi (R-WY), Alexander (R-TN), Coburn (R-OK), Roberts (R-KS), Burr (R-NC), Isakson (R-GA), Murkowski (R-AK), and Hatch (R-UT).

Opening Statements Superintendent Duncan was introduced by Senator Durbin (D-IL), who cited Duncan’s success in raising test scores and decreasing dropout rates and in working closely with the business community and unions. Senator Enzi, ranking Member on the Committee, made an opening statement in which he expressed his pleasure at Duncan’s “support for merit pay and charter schools.”

In his opening statement, Superintendent Duncan cited three “deeply held beliefs:”

1. Every child from every background can be successful.
2. When we fail to educate children, we “perpetuate poverty and social failure.”
3. Children have only one chance to be educated – we cannot wait because they cannot wait.

He spoke about wanting to focus on things that are practical, pragmatic, and innovative. His statement focused on the themes of recognizing and rewarding excellence, challenging the status quo, elevating the teaching profession, and scaling up what works. In his written statement submitted to the committee, Duncan stated with regard to NCLB, "I have seen the law's power and its limitations. I agree with the president-elect that we should neither bury NCLB nor praise it without reservation."

Questions and Answers

· Teacher Incentive Fund/Pay-for performance – Senator Alexander asked about Duncan’s views on the Teacher Incentive Fund (TIF). Senator Burr asked about expanding pay-for-performance programs. Duncan stated that he is a big fan of TIF, calling it “one of the best things Secretary Spellings did.” He mentioned that he received TIF funds in Chicago and thought it was a highly successful program that rewards talent and helps to attract and keep great teachers where they are needed most. His goal is to reward excellent teachers. He wants to support and potentially expand TIF. Duncan indicated he had a teacher advisory council in Chicago that helped shaped the program and spoke positively about his partnership with the union. He also wants to look for other ways to support teachers and attract them to high-need areas, including career ladders.

· Teach for America – Senator Harkin expressed strong support for Teach for America (TFA). He stated that a “high percentage of Teach for America alumnae stay in teaching and become excellent teachers.” He indicated that TFA needs more money than Congress currently provides ($14 million). Harkin asked Duncan about his familiarity with Wendy Kopp, the head of TFA, and his views on the program. Duncan stated that he is a huge fan of Wendy, calling her “one of a breed of educational entrepreneurs that includes Jonathan Schnur (Executive Director of New Leaders for Schools)” who are “changing the face of public education.” He expressed his strong support for TFA and talked about the partnership Chicago schools had with the program. He called it a “pipeline of talent” and indicated that many TFA alumni are principals in Chicago schools and many are among his advisors. He would like to scale up TFA quickly.

· Teacher retention – Senator Mikulski asked why so many teachers leave the profession after only a few years and what can be done to retain quality teachers. Duncan talked about the need to support new teachers, including through induction and mentoring programs. He also indicated his support for career ladders. Duncan indicated that teaching is an art, not a science, and that it takes 10-15 years to develop excellent teachers.

· Teacher compensation – Senator Roberts indicated that the main reason teachers leave the profession is the need for more money. Duncan did not provide a response to this statement as no question was asked.

· Teacher preparation – In response to a question from Senator Reed, Duncan indicated his desire to work with institutions of higher education to make sure that teachers are prepared. He also stated his support for teacher residency programs. In addition, he stated support for alternative licensure programs.

· Early childhood education – Senators Harkin and Sanders asked questions about early childhood education and the need to ensure that children come to school ready to learn In his responses, Duncan cited the Obama “zero to five” plan and his goals for improving the quality of and access to early childhood programs. Duncan indicated that there is nothing more important than getting kids ready to learn and that early childhood programs need to be much more than glorified babysitting. Duncan also indicated support for a goal of moving to universal access to quality child care.

· Higher education – Senator Murray and Senator Sanders asked about access to and affordability of higher education. Duncan responded that we need to reduce barriers to higher education, including simplifying the federal financial aid application. He also indicated his support for increasing the Pell Grant award, and the American Opportunity Tax Credit. He also stated support for loan forgiveness, cautioning that there has to be mutual responsibility and those who receive loan forgiveness must give back to the community.

Senator Burr asked about higher education matriculation rates and how long the government should have to pay for students to attend higher education. Duncan responded that he did not have a specific answer but would want to look for ways to support people who are trying to take advantage of the opportunity of higher education, including those who may need to take longer to complete their education.

· 21st Century skills – In response to a question from Senator Murray about preparing students for the jobs of tomorrow, Duncan highlighted the disconnect between the business community and education and his hopes for bridging those gaps. He stated his concern about the need to prepare students for 21st Century skills and gave the example of nursing, which cannot be outsourced.

· IDEA special education – Senator Roberts asked about IDEA funding, indicating that IDEA is currently the “biggest unfunded mandate foisted on schools.” Roberts indicated his strong support for increasing the federal share of IDEA costs. Duncan spoke about living on “the other side of the unfunded mandate” and the high price that mandate has had in Chicago’s schools.

· Highly qualified teachers/Special education --- Senator Coburn raised concerns about the impact of the definition of “highly qualified teacher” on special educators and the loss of teachers due to this problem. Senator Isakson later followed up with a similar question. In response, Duncan indicated that we need to take another look at things that are impractical and we need to be more pragmatic.

· Assessments for students with disabilities – Senator Isakson raised the issue of assessing students with disabilities and his belief that the IEP should determine the type of assessment. In response Duncan stated, “I tend to agree with you. We need to be practical.” He further added, “For English Language Learners, we need assessments that test knowledge. If we give an assessment they cannot read, what good is it?”

Senator Harkin raised the “one percent” and “two percent” rules, which limit the number of students with disabilities who can be tested with alternative assessments and count toward AYP. Harkin was concerned that these rules “leave as many as 30% of students with disabilities not counted.” Duncan stated that he “philosophically agrees” with the Senator.

· Adequate Yearly Progress – Senator Isakson raised concerns about judging schools on the failure of one subgroup. Duncan indicated his support for disaggregated data and growth models, but that it is too blunt an instrument to measure a school because of one student in one subgroup.

· Charter schools -- In response to a question from Senator Alexander, Duncan indicated that he is a great supporter of charter schools. However, he believes in holding charter schools accountable and does not believe that just anyone should be able to open a charter school. In Chicago, he stated that charters were successful because they had “rigorous strict standards up front.” In short, he supports creating schools in any format that works.

· Community schools – Senator Sanders asked about the provision of health services in schools. Duncan responded that schools should be community centers and provide services to the whole community. They should be open for 12 hours, not 6, to allow access for working parents.

· Dropout/Graduation rates – Senator Burr asked about the dropout rate problem. Duncan responded that the U.S. hasn’t so much fallen behind other countries as other countries have surpassed us. He stated that we do not need to look overseas to find good models for reducing dropout rates. He wants to “shine a light” on excellent programs in the United States and scale up what is working.

· Physical education – Senator Harkin spoke about the importance of physical education programs and the problems of childhood obesity. Duncan agreed, noting that his wife is a PE teacher.

· Challenges in rural areas – Senator Murkowski mentioned the challenges of education in a vast rural state like Alaska, and invited Duncan to visit Alaska to see these challenges first hand. She asked about a focus on middle school. Duncan indicated that there is “no magic bullet” as to which grade levels are most important and reiterated his themes of being practical, pragmatic, and focusing on what works.

Closing Statement
Senator Harkin closed the hearing by indicating his hope and expectation that Duncan would be confirmed unanimously by the full Senate.

Lesson Plans: 2009 Inauguration Day

2009-01-20T08:59:00.003-06:00

With today's historic inauguration taking place, you can find a variety of lesson plans for your classroom.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day-A Day of Service

2009-01-19T16:53:00.003-06:00

Martin Luther King, Jr.-Everything you wanted to know about Dr. King

Everybody can be great... because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.

Poverty And Minority Students Seen As Major Challenges To Some Oklahoma Districts.

2009-01-15T07:28:00.001-06:00

Another example of the challenges facing educators who teach kids in poverty. This issue isn't going to go away.

The AP (1/13) reports that "poverty and a growing population of minority students, including non-English speaking Hispanics, are presenting major challenges to public schools in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, a state school official said Monday." According to State Superintendent of Public Instruction Sandy Garrett, in both districts, "more than 80 percent of students in both districts qualify for free or reduced lunches because of their families' low income levels." Garrett joined "Higher Education Chancellor Glen Johnson "to present performance reviews of their systems" to the budget panel. During the presentation, Garrett "stressed her preference for expanding the school year and the school day to improve the education of Oklahoma students." She told the panel that "excessive testing to meet state and federal mandates is leaving little time for teachers to teach, suggesting that some testing chores in some subjects could be handled at the local level."

More on the Economic Stimulus Program for Education

2009-01-14T05:39:00.000-06:00

In this article, there is a great deal of info about the program. Remember to contact our Congressional team. The stimulus will help free up local and state revenues that can be used for our schools.

Stimulus slots more cash for schools

Federal aid for education could grow as much as $140 billion under a two-year economic stimulus bill now taking shape in Congress, where Democrats are proposing a new block grant for states and a $15 billion expansion of annual Pell grants to low-income college students.

Tell Congress to Provide Education Funding in Economic Stimulus Package

2009-01-13T06:37:00.003-06:00

The 111th Congress opened this week, with the economic crisis on the top of the agenda. Congressional leaders hope to send a comprehensive stimulus plan to President Obama by mid-February.

NEA is proposing a plan to stimulate the economy and protect/create jobs by providing additional funding to states through existing education funding formulas. Doing this will allow funding to get out quickly to every community across the nation in order to prevent cuts to education, protect jobs, and stimulate economic growth. In fact, for each dollar invested, education typically creates more jobs in communities than any other industry.

Contact your Members of Congress Today! Tell Members of Congress to provide flexible funding for education through state funding formulas as part of any economic recovery plan.

The Dangers of Meth

2009-01-12T09:30:00.005-06:00

During my time in the classroom, I've seen the impact drugs have on our kids and their families. The impact is also felt by our communities when you factor in crime, health services and lost working hours and wages.

There is now a drug out there that has created a great deal of havoc in the lives of Oklahomans--meth. Tomorrow night, a special will run on most channels at 6:30pm detailing the extent of this dangerous and very addictive drug.

Take the time to visit the website and watch the special so we can all help make a difference for our fellow citizens and communities.

Charlie Brown Philosphy by Charles Schulz?

2009-01-11T08:48:00.002-06:00

The following is always thought to be the philosophy of Charles Schulz, the creator of the 'Peanuts' comic strip. However, based on Snopes.com research, we know that an inquiry to the Charles M. Schulz Museum produced the following result--"We get this request about once a month. Though this quiz is often attributed to Charles Schulz, he in fact made no such statement."

While the news is bit of a downer, go ahead and take the quiz anyway. It's still something worthy of a few minutes of your thoughts. Don't actually answer the questions. Just read the piece straight through, and you'll get the point.

1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.
3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America pageant.
4. Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.
5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.
6. Name the last decade's worth of World Series winners.

How did you do?

The point is, none of us remember the headliners of yesterday.
These are no second-rate achievers.
They are the best in their fields.
But the applause dies.
Awards tarnish.
Achievements are forgotten.
Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.

Here's another quiz. See how you do on this one:

1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.
2. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.
3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.
4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special!!
5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.

Easier

The lesson: the people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials the most money...or the most awards.
They simply are the ones who care the most.

Highest Teen Birth Rates-Where Does Oklahoma Rank?

2009-01-10T07:22:00.001-06:00

While being in the top ten in football might be great, you don't want your state to be one of the top ten highest teen pregnancy states.

No Legal Challenges Against HOPE

2009-01-09T09:25:00.005-06:00

The state of Oklahoma will vote on the HOPE funding petition, SQ 744. after no legal challenges were filled against it. The vote will take place in the general election of 2010 unless the Governor calls for a special election.

Oklahoma Teachers Improving Math in Middle School

2009-01-08T10:28:00.003-06:00

WHAT IS OTIMMS?

A state-sponsored mathematics improvement program designed to improve student mastery of the Priority Academic Student Skills by enhancing teachers’ mastery of the subject matter content and process skills.

The primary focus for attendees who have not yet passed the Middle Level Mathematics test is to help them prepare for and successfully complete the Middle Level Intermediate mathematics Oklahoma Subject Area OSAT.

The primary focus for attendees who have already obtained their Middle Level Intermediate Mathematics certification is to participate in a small learning community/leadership track.

WHEN/WHERE IS IT OFFERED?
January 10, 17, 24: OEA Headquarters, 323 E. Madison, Oklahoma City
Class each day is scheduled for 8:00 am-4:30 pm

HOW DO I APPLY?
For more information, call Jennifer Smith at 800.522.8091

2009 Quality Counts Report--Oklahoma School Funding F

2009-01-07T13:54:00.015-06:00

While nothing is perfect, when your state has good grades in a couple of very important categories and funding is at an F, that's a great reason for lower scores in some of the other areas and another set of reasons to support the HOPE--SQ 744.

I'm sure the business community would love the information about teachers, accountability, and standards, but tell me why they would move to our state when they look at the funding commitment. How do both our elected and business leaders promote Oklahoma with this kind of investment strategy?

The 12th annual edition of Education Week’s Quality Counts continues the cradle-to-career framework launched in last year’s report. But it also reintroduces some of the categories in which we have graded states in the past, though some of the indicators and the grading have changed. The cradle-to-career perspective emphasizes the connections between K-12 education and other systems with which it intersects: preschool education, other social and economic institutions, and further education and training.

2009 Quality Counts Report

Chance for success Oklahoma C- Nation C+

K-12 achievement Oklahoma D Nation D+

Standards, assessments, and accountability Oklahoma A- Nation B

Transitions and alignment Oklahoma C Nation C

The teaching profession Oklahoma B- Nation C

School finance Oklahoma D+ with an F in Funding--the rest of the Nation C+ in school finance.

Thank You Charles McCauley

2009-01-05T08:56:00.006-06:00

Creating this post has been difficult because on December 31st, my good friend, Charles McCauley retired after 37 years of service to the Oklahoma Education Association. During his tenure at the OEA, Charles has been the heart and soul of our organization. His commitment to kids, teachers, schools, and human and civil rights has helped mold our organization into the best education voice for our state.

Charles, thanks for all you've done.