Bettiua Salas

Bettiua Salas's Response:

Your analysis addresses only a very small part of what makes a teacher effective. Unfortunately, you reinforce the faulty belief that education can be measured by a single test when, in fact, many different aspects contribute to student success. Much of what occurs in the classroom cannot be measured, yet, it is vital to a child's understanding and his ability to succeed in society. I am concerned that now even more time and effort will have to be spent on reviews to prepare students for testing, which will take away valuable time from what really matters: learning about the world and gaining knowledge at a pace that is developmentally appropriate.
I am disappointed and angry that The Times has chosen a limited group of elementary school teachers and is blaming them for deficits in our educational system. Elementary schools in particular have made great strides over the past few years as shown by the very same data that you are now using to discredit their teachers. If you were truly interested in education reform, you would focus on what research has already pointed out: We need small classes with dedicated and knowledgeable professionals, time to prepare and reflect on best practices, a curriculum that is developmentally appropriate, parent involvement at home and at school, and flexibility in a system that allows ridiculously expensive schools to be built at a time when funding for basic education continues to be slashed.