I like #4, but that also relies on having functional standardized tests.
What is "Level 2" and how does a student acheive it. Will all Level 2 students at a school have the same proficiency? Home about across the Board? Or the country?
The biggest advantage I can see of bringing different ages together is that there's no more of this "no child left behind" feel-goodery.
I picture a system where each teacher takes a group of kids from K-8. Every year, a few more graduate and there's a new crop of kindergardeners; older students are expected to mentor and guide the younger students. Curriculum is clearly laid out and tests are done quarterly, if the student is ready. Some classes are general, but each school will have classes that focus on things like music, history, engineering, athletics, etc that students can transfer to if they meet the prerequisite levels.
I'd also like the general classes to actually run the school, insofar as possible. Stuff like cleaning classrooms, basic maintenance, grounds keeping, and food programs could all be run by classes of kids. This way, everyone gets a turn doing the nitty gritty that keeps the school running, and they also get the choice of pursuing academics or something more grounded.
I like #4, but that also relies on having functional standardized tests.
What is "Level 2" and how does a student acheive it. Will all Level 2 students at a school have the same proficiency? Home about across the Board? Or the country?
The biggest advantage I can see of bringing different ages together is that there's no more of this "no child left behind" feel-goodery.
I picture a system where each teacher takes a group of kids from K-8. Every year, a few more graduate and there's a new crop of kindergardeners; older students are expected to mentor and guide the younger students. Curriculum is clearly laid out and tests are done quarterly, if the student is ready. Some classes are general, but each school will have classes that focus on things like music, history, engineering, athletics, etc that students can transfer to if they meet the prerequisite levels.
I'd also like the general classes to actually run the school, insofar as possible. Stuff like cleaning classrooms, basic maintenance, grounds keeping, and food programs could all be run by classes of kids. This way, everyone gets a turn doing the nitty gritty that keeps the school running, and they also get the choice of pursuing academics or something more grounded.
Yeah it's details need ironing out, and how wide the standards are needs thinking about, but the broad idea is far better than what is done atm imo>
I do like the maintenance class. Makes sense, teaches trades, teaches responsibility, and teaches skills needed to maintain a home too. Good call.