Getting involved...

Time to become involved…

As I write this blog the PA House has voted on an education bill that contains provisions for a pilot voucher program for our state; thankfully, it was defeated 90-105. The Senate earlier passed SB 1, which was not supported by the House; conversely, then, it is likely that the House plan will be rejected by the Senate. (In this case, it’s good that the Democrats and Republicans work so hard against each other instead of working for the people they represent!)

I urge you to contact your legislator to oppose any such legislation. Here are some reasons you can relate when you make contact:
• Voucher programs are unproven, unpopular, unaffordable and unconstitutional.
• Studies in other state programs show that vouchers are not a lifeline for increased student achievement.
• Remind your legislator that providing state funds for vouchers to be used at private and religious schools is unconstitutional.
• Tell your legislator to read this article - http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/13/education/online-schools-score-better-on-wall-street-than-in-classrooms.html?pagewanted=1&_r=2&hpw. This expose’, published on December 12, 2011, in the New York Times, follows months of research showing that even as charter schools are failing students academically, they are making millions of dollars in profit from taxpayers.
• The anticipated cost of a voucher program would cost the state $17 million dollars in its first year.

The link to the article posted above is a must read for anyone and everyone who is not informed about how cyber charter schools are making huge profits while many students are underperforming, not attending, or overbilling school districts. Both voucher plans, proposed by either the House or the Senate, is not about choice for all learners and their families. Rather, it is an entitlement program for a select group whose members, I can guarantee, do not include those with the greatest academic or economic need.

Enough “soap box” discourse.

Kudos to the students, music staff, stage hands and all who helped make this year’s musical, The Drowsy Chaperone, a huge success. Central Cambria has always excelled in the arts. With such dedicated advisors, teachers and family support, I’m sure this will continue for years to come.

After we return from the holiday break, PSSA preparation becomes a focus for all public educators in Pennsylvania. I ask you, when possible, to avoid appointments or take vacations during the PSSA testing windows. These are the testing dates:

Math and reading assessments, grades 3-8, 11 March 12 - 23
Writing assessments, grades 5, 8, 11 April 16-20
Science assessments, grades 4, 8, 11 April 23-27

More information will be forthcoming as March approaches.

Finally, I am so lucky to have this blog as a way to wish all students, staff, parents, and community members a Merry Christmas and Joyous New Year. Enjoy this time of year to be with family, friends, good food, and of course, college and pro football. Until next year… Dr. D.