Block · one region of the page, as the scanner read it. It may hold a whole story, part of one, several, or an advertisement; stitching blocks into articles is the next step. Text is supplied OCR.
Page 6 · column 4 of 6 · from the scan, no model involved
conceded that many teadhers were worried that the SOLs would take away their creative flexibility and place much more emphasis, on rote memorization.
Some feel time for such “pull out” activities as music or physical education will be jeopardized so teachers can work in more repetition of SOL material. Mrs. Tupper said she was confident RCES would measure up without cutting into art, music or P.E. programs. “I feel we need more of these programs, not less....I can’t imagine we would cut back. The bottom line is for children to get the education they need. The test is secondary.”
Ms. Mutterer pointed out with school accreditation tied to student achievement'measured by testing results, the fear arises that teaching emphasis will switch from low student/teacher ratios and quality instructional materials to memorization and relatively inexpensive techniques such as repetitive worksheets. She urged teachers to find the positives in the situation. “This is the way it is and we need to ask what we need to do this. Don’t panic yet. It is not -just an either/or situation. We can teach to these new standards and provide a creative environment. We can do both.”
She also listed steps for parents and community members concerned about the SOLs. “Keep in touch with your child’s educators. Talk directly to their teachers. You can find out what your school needs specifically to meet the equipment or funding requirements which the current state or county budget doesn’t answer. Be diligent about saying something if you think the SOLs are not working and urge adjustments. Support the budget process on the local level and demand funding from the state. You can write the State Board of Education of your state representatives and let them know if you are unhappy with the change in your child’s education.”
Mrs. Tupper also urged parents to voice any concerns or questions about the new teaching approaches, but to give the new subjects a chance. She was confident that the elementary school staff would not only be able to handle the changes but maintain a high level of quality as well. “No one has expressed real unhappiness to me about* the different SOLs and the testing. I imagine Concerns are on their minds .... I think it will all work out. We have good people here.”
94.7%