Yes, we really do know how to fix education; lower teacher student ratios and more time in the classroom. This is really an easy fix.
So, why does this not happen?
I am passionate about my chosen career, education. Most educator's feel this way. I believe most educators see it as probably one of the most important careers that exists. Most educators are dedicated to their students and want to do whatever there is in their power to make their students' successful. Many of us do not feel that another test will do that. Many of us know that another test will not "fix" our students.
Our students are unique individuals, one size does not fit all. We can not operate on a "business" model. Our students are not objects, they are people. Until each community, each school examines their own issues and challenges, and addresses those at the school level, improvement will not happen. Mandates will not cure the problem, technology will not cure the problem, new standards will not cure the problem, new teacher evaluation methods will not cure the problem.
We need to stop spending money on "stuff" that does not work. We need to hire more teachers! If necessary, we may have to build more classrooms. Lower the teacher student ratio and watch the scores explode!
