Governor Cuomo has released a report which concludes that many of New York State's public schools are failing. As I skimmed the lengthy document online, I noticed a consistency which, to me, was critical in understanding why these schools are struggling. With only two exceptions (Amsterdam and Buffalo's South Park), the schools which have been deemed failing are attempting … Continue reading Cuomo: failing to understand the problem
Category: politics
The State of our State makes me angry
I'm angry that Sheldon Silver was given the courtesy of sitting in a position of prestige at this week's State of the State address when the state's teachers are not invited to sit at the table and truly participate in education reform and improvement. I'm angry that Sheldon Silver, along with the governor and other … Continue reading The State of our State makes me angry
12/13/14
Yesterday's date was remarkable because it was the last time in our lifetime, barring some crazy medical advances, that we will see a consecutive numbers date. What begin with 1/2/3 is now over for the current century. Pretty momentous, don't you think? I've learned there are occasions which demand recognition for various reasons - holidays, … Continue reading 12/13/14
The Neighborhood That Disappeared
It takes a lot to get me out of the house on a Monday, especially when it is cold and dark. Last night though, thanks to the thoughtfulness of Louise McNeilly, I made my way to Page Hall (for the first time in decades) to attend the premiere of a local movie, The Neighborhood That … Continue reading The Neighborhood That Disappeared
Thoughts on Thanksgiving
I'm afraid of the impression we're making, we Americans, as I browse my favorite dirty little secret website, the Daily Mail UK, and read the post titles about America's Thanksgiving holiday. Titles with words like shopping and bargains and outrage. Sigh. This is what we're telling the world that we're about? This is how we … Continue reading Thoughts on Thanksgiving
Red light, green light, one-two-three
Did you play that game when you were a kid? We usually alternated between Red Light and Mother, May I? on autumn evenings which grew more quickly dark as each day passed. They were fun games to play during times, which I recall as, much more simple than today. No batteries or cords necessary. These … Continue reading Red light, green light, one-two-three
My primary problem
I'm a teacher and a member of NYSUT. I'm not always a fan of my union or some of the marketing with which they provide me. Things like solicitations for rental car companies and insurance opportunities don't seem like benefits as much as they feel like invasions of my privacy and personal information. I don't … Continue reading My primary problem
