Cherie's Random Thoughts

In this article from Hechinger Report, the author discusses the scary fact that many students who are graduating from High School with A averages and have to take remedial coursework when they arrive at college.  Why are many students with ‘A’ averages being barred from college-level classes? - The Hechinger Report I have several questions about this issue: Why is this happening? Is a placement test best way to assess a students ability to do college level work? How effective is remedial education in the long run for students who have significant delays in skills? There is one fact that does need to happen. Remediation at the College level needs to change. At any given time a student could have to take one remedial course up to five depending on the college or university. The more remedial courses students have, the less likely they will complete college. Even worse, little is being done to address the hit to the human psyche, when you believe you are ready only to be told yo...

Last night I was reminded of how powerful the process truly is! As trained early childhood educator I have a deep interest in ensuring that students birth through adulthood understand that the process is what matters most. In the field, we often debate whether process or product is better. Some would say that the process is "meaningless play". Others, like myself, would say it is the "birth of genius".  Within everyone human being there lies a deep need for unstructured process-oriented activities or active play. Active play at every level of education is necessary for real learning to occur and helps learners maintain the "love of learning" that they lose from the demands of testing, school policies, and life stress.  On February 17, 2016, several Manor students, faculty, staff, and their friends and family engage in a very process oriented approach to art with the renowned, Jesse White. I could visibly see learning and "genius" happenin...