Teaching Life

The new Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan, has really pushed for utilizing the stimulus money set aside for education to overhaul the education system.  Duncan is not interested in adding money to programs that have not worked, he believes it is time for a change in America’s education system. He is pushing to save teacher’s jobs, reform the education system, including No Child Left Behind, and give incentives to teacher’s whose students perform well. These things, if they actually happen, are changes that have been long time coming.  Duncan’s goals are to reduce dropout rates and provide a more quality education for students.  He believes other countries like China and India are surpassing us.  Why?  One reason is they are in school longer.

Cutting back on Summer Vacation

So, is cutting back on summer time for students really a good option?  Possibly.  It depends on what he means by cutting back.  Should there be a 2 week summer break, a one month summer break or no break at all?  Many families take vacation over summer break or send their children to summer camps.  Other families just relax and let the kids enjoy the time off without an educational stimulation for 8-10 weeks.

Children Need a Break

I don’t believe it is necessary for elementary age students to go through school without taking SOME time off in the summer.  Children that age need to rest their brain and enjoy summer time activities.  Play activities and socialzing with friends is also an important part of their growth. While these are critical years in an individual’s educational career and learning at this age is so vital, there needs to be a balance.

I think Duncan has some great ideas, and it is just a matter of time to see which plans will be reformed and which traditions will remain.  As a future teacher, I certainly hope they don’t take away summer break.  However, I would be open to a shorter summer with more breaks throughout the year.  I am curious as to what others feel about year round schools.  Please feel free to comment.