This summer there was a Time magazine article, built around the somewhat long-standing research (I saw the research 6 or 7 years ago) from Johns Hopkins University -- regarding the impacts of summer on the learning of students. Essentially the basic idea is that there is little or NO difference in the learning of students (whether improvised or not) during the regular school year. So far so good!!
The problem is ...that when summer comes -- essentially students of poverty go home for the summer and the learning input stops. Meanwhile, those of more affluent means are enrolled in any number of programs that continue their learning. Obviously, as we spread this effect out over the course of an elementary school career for students -- there is a HUGE difference (that begins to amount to years). This is probably most visually illustrated with a recent 4 minute You Tube video.
So, in my view, the question for us becomes HOW can we modify our system to make sure that ALL of our students are learning well, completely, and to HIGH levels? How can we capitalize on summer opportunities and begin planning now to improve the learning for our students?
Why is it the responsibility of RUSD to educate our students during the summer? Our budget crisis doesn't allow for this. Am I missing something? I was one of six children growing up, and my parents made sure that they took us to the local Public Library which had free reading opportunities for families over the summer. The Public Library continues to have free summer reading programs.
ReplyDeleteAdditionally, my mom took us to the local museums which offered wonderful educational information. Our local museums continue to offer fabulous opportunities and educational experiences.
It is the responsibility of the parents to take advantage of these many FREE or extremely inexpensive opportunities that are available right here in Riverside. Therefore, all we need to do is inform them until they are aware! It is up to the parents to get their children to the venue. It is not RUSD's job to get them there. We are in a financial crisis. Handouts are not the answer.
There is one low-cost high-impact step we can take with very little effort; move to a modified calendar shortening the summer break and lenghtening others. This can be done with relatively little impact to high school sport as evidenced by the practices of other districts. We know that this is the right thing to do. We simply haven't done it.
ReplyDeleteRUSD has layed off teachers, and support staff. We do not have the funds for complete summer education for all. Used to be we could walk to a summer school in our neighborhood, no more. Now summer school is but a dream for students to get ahead. Basically, it is for students who failed to succeed during the school year, but who have first rights to 'make-up' those classes they failed. I say, too bad, you had your chance.
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