Gene Caldwell’s guest column makes for excellent reading today for anyone — parents, taxpayers, politicians — interested in education.
I find it interesting that he, like his predecessor, David Coffey, cites the research of Dr. Bill Sanders — a nationally-recognized expert in evaluating the gains made by students, and the architect of Tennessee’s Value-Added Assessment (TVAAS) program.
Both Coffey and Caldwell served on the Education Committee in the Tennessee Legislature. Coffey is a Republican; Caldwell, a Democrat. However, their comments on improving education are remarkably similar. Teacher quality has more impact than any other factor.
… and that, in my opinion, may be the root of many of our (society’s) problems.
“Quality” has a disproportionate cost in comparison to “good enough” or “average.”
It takes a lot more effort to stay at the top of the heap than it takes to get there for a moment or two — and the overwhelming majority of people are either unwilling or unable to understand this concept.
As someone once told me “the extra mile is never crowded.”
Well said.
Of course, those who have never experienced quality in a given product or service may not fully appreciate the value of the extra cost. Even having acquired an appreciation, most of us cannot afford the highest quality in all things — so we prioritize.
Education is an investment that pays lifelong dividends, and should therefore be a top priority.
“Education is an investment that pays lifelong dividends, and should therefore be a top priority.”
I don’t take a back seat to anyone here on this topic.
Convincing a population that is disproportionately retired that education should continue to be *their* priority when they’ve paid for their kids and they live on a fixed income is a challenge. This is your cross to bear. Good luck with that.
Joel, it’s been my observation (and that of others) that our retired population is overwhelmingly supportive of education. The demographics from the sales tax referendum to rebuild the high school show that the retirees are supportive, and many who spoke to City Council last year in favor of school funding have children older than I am.
I’m hard-pressed to understand though, why people whose children are benefiting would be complaining. Yet, some are.
Recently seen on a Bumper Sticker:
Think Education is Expensive? Try Ignorance.
How True!