Expectations in Education

http://www.state.tn.us/education/core_values.shtml

Two weeks ago I discussed the continuing struggles Tennessee is having implementing a school reform plan called the Common Core.  Despite the backing of a popular Governor who comes from the majority party, Republican and the nearly universal support of school superintendents and teachers, we are left with one burning question, what’s all the fuss?  There may be multiple answers to this question, but it boils down to one thing, expectations.  Stakeholders in education are giving and receiving conflicting expectations.  For example, the state of Tennessee reports on their web site, “We believe in the potential of all Tennessee students to reach high levels of academic achievement.  We believe that, in collaboration with our colleagues across the state, we can and will build a system that helps our students meet their potential.” (tdoe, 2014)  This is listed as an “Optimism” core value.  However, President Obama stated on many occasions that school should prepare students for college or the work force.  As an example, at Graham Road Elementary school in Falls Church, Virginia, the president stated, “we encouraged states to adopt more challenging standards that will actually prepare our kids for college and their careers.” (Obama, 2010)  So what is expectation?  Help student reach their potential or prepare them for college/workforce.  I believe this is more than semantics, as we raise expectation for our students we need to define those expectations.  Reforms like the common core will only be palatable if/when the expectations are understood.