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Here are news and opinion stories educators, advocates, policy wonks and makers are talking about today:
News and Analysis
States that want to develop new types of tests, revamp test scoring and score reporting, or take a close look at the number and type of tests they offer to eliminate low-quality or redundant tests can apply for $9 million in federal competitive grants under the Enhanced Assessment Grant program, the U.S. Department of Education announced Friday. (Education Week)
Let’s begin with a choice. Say there’s a check in the mail. It’s meant to help you run your household. You can use it to keep the lights on, the water running and food on the table. Would you rather that check be for $9,794 or $28,639? It’s not a trick question. It’s the story of America’s schools in two numbers. (NPR)
Lowering interest rates on student loans would not do much to lower defaults or encourage more young people to earn college degrees, according to a new analysis by the Brookings Institution. (The Atlantic)
“Why,” I pushed gently, “does she need to take the quiz more than she needs to sit with you and learn how to structure a paragraph?” It was a simple question, but I saw signs of awakening on Jane’s face. “You’re right,” she finally said. “I never considered my ability to make choices like this. Tomorrow, I’ll work with Veronica one-on-one.” (Edutopia)
An appeals court decision this week upholding California’s teacher tenure and seniority rules leaves school reform forces at a crossroads as they press for changes across the nation. (Los Angeles Times)
Jose Perez never really worried about why his children had to repeat English-language classes year after year. After all, they were born in California. (Los Angeles Times)