Monday, November 25, 2013

Radio

Will be on the radio with Austin Hill at 8 AM on 99.1 to talk about common core.
http://chumly.com/n/20baa76

Saturday, November 23, 2013

I thought you should see this story

Sen. Fulcher launches challenge against Idaho Gov. Otter

m.idahostatesman.com/is/db_300468/contentdetail.ht...48Jt5
http://chumly.com/n/20b3e28

Common Core

I have uploaded my thoughts on Common Core to my website - steventhayn.com
It is a four page essay with recommendations.
https://chumly.com/n/20b374e

Common Core and Testing

Associated with Common Core are a series of tests. Idaho has choosen the SBAC test. This is a long test that requires keyboarding skills in order to input the data. I find this test is not appropriate for elementary students. Schools are taking time to teach keyboarding skills in the second grade. Is this the best use of time? If we use the SBAC, it should only be used for 7th grade and older grades.

Also, the data being generated by these test is of marginal value to the teacher. The data will be used primarily by policymakers. I find this backward. Any test being given should, first, benefit the teacher in crafting classroom instruction; and, secondly, benefit statisticitians.
https://chumly.com/n/20b356a

Ted Cruz's Advice

I was in Dallas last week and Senator Cruz gave some wise advice. He suggested that we need to focus on opportunity (meaning oppening up ecnomic opportunity) and empower the people. I have been going around the state of Idaho this last week giving this exact message with concrete examples of how the citizens of Idaho can be empowered with resources and choices in medical care, education, and the economy.

The message has been well received.
https://chumly.com/n/20b2fc9

Friday, November 22, 2013

MP Squared Tour

In Idaho Falls on our 5th night of the tour.
http://chumly.com/n/20b0a32