Enrichment

This school year marks the first time I feel satisfied with the range of academic "enrichment" opportunities being offered to students. Standardized testing and curriculum measure learning far too narrowly. Any thoughtful teacher, citizen, parent, or student knows there are multitudes of creative and exciting ways to display learning that go beyond filling in a multiple choice bubble. I appreciate the teachers and leadership at my school who understand this.


My school, Shelby County East Middle School (KY), is still focused on mandated state and federal testing to an extent that, at times, makes me uncomfortable. On the bright side, there are lots of cool things going on in the building to directly impact student engagement and motivation. We have a new "enrichment" period in our daily schedule, essentially giving motivated teachers an opportunity to expand meaningful learning initiatives with students. So far, I've heard about the following courses offered (or about to begin) during this enrichment period: sign language, economics, food and ethics, archery, a media/communications project, literature circles galore, and science fair demonstrations, among others.



This is the first year with our enrichment period. It's not always smooth sailing. Many veteran teachers, myself included, have been running around trying to play catch up with this extra prep. I have my fingers crossed that we can build on whatever successes come this year and not follow the counterproductive pattern of annually (seemingly) changing the daily schedule.

Improved Test Scores=Real Improvement?

It's pretty obvious to the thoughtful/informed observer that consistently rising standardized test scores does not mean our students are getting smarter or acheiving at higher academic levels. Under NCLB, states set standards for proficiency and attempt to move towards every student being proficient in reading and math by 2014. Some states, like Mississippi, have an astounding number of students reaching "proficient" levels according to their testing standards. A recent Washington Post article delves into some of the variables and issues to consider as test scores rise.

There are better ways to assess whether students are learning, such as an array of formative tools, authentic student portfolios and projects, and widespread technology application. I'm hoping to create an audio collage/commentary about summative vs. formative assessments to compliment my unapologetic sound essay critique of NCLB.