"A child's learning is the function more of the characteristics of his classmates than those of the teacher." James Coleman, 1972

Tuesday, March 28, 2006

Learning to Say, NO--and Learning to Stand Up for Children

Peter Campbell interviews Susan Ohanian. A Million Teacher March? Do have a listen!

From Peter:
"All I know is if teachers remain silent, they are going to lose their profession. In many cases, the profession is dead: when you're reading a script, you are not a professional."

http://netdrive.montclair.edu/~campbellp/susan_ohanian.mp3

In my interview with her, Susan Ohanian calls on teachers, professional organizations, and unions to speak out against high-stakes testing. As she says, "You certainly can't be an activist if your mouth is shut."

If you are a fledgling activist or just need a kick in the pants to get organized or stay organized, this is what you are looking for! Susan is an inspiration to us all.

1 comment:

  1. The problem is that teachers fear speaking up because they will be forced to leave their positions. Teachers are getting in trouble across the country just presenting different points of view or getting reprimanded for their letters to the editor.

    I agree that have a Million Teacher March would focus on the tough educational issues that most want to avoid.

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