Elementary School Archives - Independence Institute

Binding Thread? Four-Day School Week Research & Denver’s Roots Elementary 0
- September 15, 2015
Sometimes a little edublogger sees two small interesting stories to cover, and leaves it to insightful readers like you to figure out the connection. Today is one of those somewhat interesting occasions. Let’s start over at Education Week, where a recent post by Liana Heitin caught my attention. A newly published study of 15 rural […]
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Of Successful Turnarounds, Heavy Hands, and Union Bargaining Power 0
- September 9, 2015
It’s much better to have a light touch, rather than a heavy hand, from the state to exert efforts to improve schools. Colorado has its share of schools and districts in need of turnaround, with some serious options on the table (but delayed one year by a 2015 state law). Whenever possible, I always like […]
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New York Charter Success: You Know How to Spell It 0
- August 18, 2015
It’s often been said “you can’t argue with success” (or Success). But that doesn’t stop some from trying. Last year, I pointed out the collective jaw-dropping that took place when test results came back from students in the Harlem Success Academies, a New York City charter network that overwhelmingly serves poor and disadvantaged families. Just […]
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Friday Decisions: A Furry Friend, Sneak-onomics, and Extra Ice Cream!0
- July 17, 2015
Yesterday the Colorado Department of Education released CMAS science and social studies test results. It’s only the second year the test has been given (science to 5th and 8th graders, social studies to 4th and 7th graders), so you can’t read too much into the trend lines. The bottom line is that scores are up […]
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“Twin” Studies Add More Pieces to Teacher Effectiveness Puzzle 0
- April 16, 2015
Apparently, there has been some rampant speculation that little Eddie is actually little Eddies, that there is more than one of me. At least that’s what I’ve been told. Now I find that sort of talk a little disturbing. Who am I anyway? Maybe someone has seen my doppelganger out there. I’d also given consideration […]
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Exciting Stuff: Jeffco’s Jefferson Area Plan Moves Closer to a Vote 0
- February 26, 2015
Some positive efforts for change are underway in the Jefferson Articulation Area, one of Jeffco’s most challenging regions. An important improvement plan faces a March 5 board vote. The plan is the culmination of a huge process that pulled together district officials, school leaders, community members, and parents. Education collaboration is a beautiful thing. Let’s hope it leads to better results for students!
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