The co-CEO of Teach for America explains how, in response to the organization’s recruiting challenges, it is starting the process earlier and customizing teaching positions to applicants’ interests. (Forbes)
Middle class parents opting their kids out of state tests in New York have a point, and shouldn’t be ignored by those looking to improve schools, argues Frederick Hess. (U.S. News & Word Report)
HBO’s John Oliver takes on standardized testing, arguing that tests are taking too big a toll on students. (YouTube)
One advocate takes Oliver to task over his logic, but also concedes that the education field needs a better sense of humor. (Justin Cohen)
And, in response to the clip, a Pearson official defends testing’s role in ensuring equity for students. (Answer Sheet)
Michael Petrilli argues that one reason the opt-out movement is bigger in New York and New Jersey than elsewhere in the country is the strength of teachers unions. (Flypaper)
During Teacher Appreciation Week, recognizing some of pop culture’s more nuanced depictions of the profession. (Washington Post)
A Center for American Progress analyst argues that if we really want to show appreciation for teachers this week, we would give them a raise. (U.S. News & World Report)
A look at the student organizing efforts behind a campaign to increase the number of sports teams available for students in New York City’s small high schools. (The Nation)
Stephen Colbert is helping fund every grant request from South Carolina teachers on the crowdfunding site DonorsChoose, with nearly $800,000 going to more than 800 teachers at 375 schools. (Greenville News)
Two new reports suggest that schools should be skipping more high-achieving children through grades, but district policies often get in the way. (NPR Ed)
More schools serving low-income students are making it a priority to get kids taking Advanced Placement classes. (WUNC)