Algebra 2 doesn’t factor into the new Texas Curriculum

from the associated press: Trend-starting Texas drops algebra II mandate

I hated Algebra II, but I took it, passed it and it was done and dusted. Never thought twice about it except for when other people were about to take it and wanted to scare them…

Anyway, the Texas Board of Education has decided that Alegebra II doesn’t matter as much as it used to. They say that skipping it will allow for flexibility in curriculum choices and help prepare students for higher paying jobs that don’t require it.
This only applies to those who are not in honors classes. This also does not mean that students won’t be taking it, as school districts can still mandate it.
Some say it’s dumbing down the curriculum and others say that it will better correlate with what is needed in the workforce.
Some also say that Algebra II is a powerful predictor of those who will go to college, and others say that forcing students to take it, is causing kids to drop out.
here is a quote that I believe speaks volumes:

“Officials in Washington state recently compared school districts with and without more strenuous requirements and found no correlation between graduation rates and higher standards”

The reason why this is important is because Texas (despite how it ranks) tends to set the trends for education across the country, the unfortunate part is that judging from recent history Texas is not interested in a quality education for all students.

Your Values are Wrong, but Reformation is Here!: Social Justice Training on a College Campus

Social-Justice

In an article recently passed on to me by a friend, I read about a new “student development model” that was implemented at the University of Delaware. The model was said to be a “student centered- values education model” aimed at social justice education and implemented by Resident Assistants through the department of residence life. My take on it is that having been reviewed by the American College Personnel Association’s Commission for Social Justice Educators, leads me to believe that good intentions were at the forefront of the program although some of the details on its utilization and results are alarming. With that being stated, let me expound on my thoughts. First of all, I would hope that the there are specific learning outcomes grounded in theory which form the basis of the program. Secondly, I would hope that the needs assessment or some other crucial assessment/instrument has bee utilized in order to ascertain the issue that the program seeks to resolve. Is there truly a need for this model? To this extent? etc. Thirdly, I would hope that both the trainers (most likely community directors/coordinators or other professionals) are well versed enough to properly train, advise, and supervise the Resident Assistants (RAs). Next, I would hope that the RAs have undergone extensive and continuous training, including experiential learning, student development theory, identity theory (for themselves), as well as counseling skills, etc. in order to truly help and not hinder the development of the students in the residence halls.

What comes across alarming to me are the definitions used for training, use of labels such as “treatments” for the program, and the mere idea of putting something so heavy on RAs. Although by definition in many regards they serve as peer educators and peer advisors, they are also seen as peer role models to students. This brings about many potential issues and not to mention a vast amount of cognitive dissonance from many students already undergoing transitions and issues that are faced with the acclimation to college academics and college life. Additionally, the tactics said to be used in order to gain participation from students and/or “treat” them for their lack of participation and willingness to disclose information are also alarming. Educated, trained, and experienced professionals in student affairs and counseling would be best suited for any programs/models of this nature. Indeed for me, at first read, this is particularly disturbing. However, more information is needed for my true understanding of the matter at hand and I plan to further investigate. To read the article, follow this link : http://thefire.org/article/9865.html or visit the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education website and search for the article “Please Report to your Resident Assistant to Discuss your Sexual Identity–It’s Mandatory!: Thought Reform at the University of Delaware.”

A Kanye West text book.

I couldn’t let this little tid bit go by…

Here’s the book’s full synopsis::

The ability of popular art to offer societal critiques and challenge received ideas has been recognized throughout history. Through rap and hip hop, composers, singers, and entertainers have recently provided a voice questioning and challenging the sanctioned view of the times. This book offers an in-depth reading of the works and cultural impact of Kanye West. Looking at the moral and social implications of West’s words, images, and music in the broader context of Western civilization’s preconceived ideas, the contributors consider how West both challenges religious and moral norms and propagates them.

I think Kanye is a polarizing figure for different reasons at different times in his career, at the very least its been interesting, but I think there is be something to said when popular music artists are placed in the context of say, an impactful political or social figure. Then again, pop music influences millions, so they are ripe for examination.

Thought is so powerful it can alter your genetic makeup

Aside

Scientists Finally Show How Your Thoughts Can Cause Specific Molecular Changes To Your Genes
This is a fascinating article on the power of thought