Articles for category: Uncategorized

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Common Core Math: Problem O and the Scripted Lesson Debate

The Ongoing Confusion Around Common Core Math The rollout of Common Core standards sparked widespread discussion across the U.S., especially in subjects like math. One case, referred to as “Problem O,” highlights the confusion students and teachers face due to rigidly designed learning modules. While the goal of Common Core is to establish consistent, high-level ...

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New Yorkers Who Say “Enough” to High-Stakes Testing

In recent years, a significant movement has emerged among New York parents, educators, and students, voicing strong opposition to high-stakes standardized testing in public schools. This collective resistance, known as the “opt-out” movement, reflects growing concerns about the impact of these tests on educational quality, student well-being, and equity within the education system. The Rise ...

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A Young Teacher’s Voice: How Test-Based Evaluations Hurt Real Education

In today’s high-stakes education climate, one teacher’s story from Washington, D.C., sheds light on the devastating impact of tying teacher evaluations to student test scores—especially under the Common Core framework. A former South Side High School student—now a young, passionate educator—shared her experience in a letter that speaks for thousands. Her identity is protected, but ...

Dramatic illustration of students taking an exam under desk lamps, representing testing pressure and burnout

The Case Against High-Stakes Testing in New York State

Across New York, growing numbers of educators, parents, and advocates are calling for an end to high-stakes testing in public schools. While most support rigorous academic standards and strong instruction, the state’s current approach to testing is widely seen as harmful, inefficient, and counterproductive. The emphasis on test-based accountability has created a learning environment where ...

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Why New York’s VAM for High School Principals Is Deeply Flawed

As New York State prepares to roll out a Value-Added Model (VAM) to evaluate high school principals, education leaders are raising red flags. With the school year nearing its end, high school principals still lack a clear understanding of how their VAM score—representing 25% of their Annual Professional Performance Review (APPR)—will be calculated. The model, introduced with little ...

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Parents Speak Out After Cancellation of New York Education Forums

The recent cancellation of state-sponsored PTA town hall forums by New York State Education Commissioner John B. King, Jr. has sparked a wave of frustration among parents and community members. Among those responding are Keith and Michelle Gamache, parents from Long Island known for their respectful and thoughtful engagement in educational matters. In an open ...

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Epic Charter Schools

EPIC Charter School offers a non-traditional learning environment for students in grades TK–12 across Southern California. Designed for families seeking an alternative to the traditional public school model, EPIC provides a flexible and individualized education that combines modern technology, certified teachers, and parental input. The school is fully authorized by the Orange County Board of ...