Isn't that the old adage, liars figure and figures lie? GrumpySimon doesn't mention that in many states, Indiana among them, the calculation of information used to define a dropout has been changed so that instead of what had been calculated at a 10% drop out rate last year is now figured at a 30% dropout rate. Same schools, same students, same raw data, different end result. There is nothing more wrong with our schools now than has been with them in the past. In fact, here in Indiana, schools are achieving at a higher standard than ever. Critics are just much more able, and likely, to point out the deficits due to the glut of information that is readily available. Take your numbers and spin them how you want. What will catch the attention of the media will be the negative information. Just like negative political advertising, it just seems to grab public attention. Instead of criticizing ask yourself, "What have I done to help a child learn today?"
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Isn't that the old adage, liars figure and figures lie? GrumpySimon doesn't mention that in many states, Indiana among them, the calculation of information used to define a dropout has been changed so that instead of what had been calculated at a 10% drop out rate last year is now figured at a 30% dropout rate. Same schools, same students, same raw data, different end result. There is nothing more wrong with our schools now than has been with them in the past. In fact, here in Indiana, schools are achieving at a higher standard than ever. Critics are just much more able, and likely, to point out the deficits due to the glut of information that is readily available. Take your numbers and spin them how you want. What will catch the attention of the media will be the negative information. Just like negative political advertising, it just seems to grab public attention. Instead of criticizing ask yourself, "What have I done to help a child learn today?"