Teachers who touch our lives

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A former student’s email shocked me last week. I hope it will do the same for you.

Karen wrote, in part, “ I can’t believe it has been 36 years since I first walked through the doors (of the school where you taught)… educators made an impact on my future choices and you were definitely one of them Thanks for the inspiration during my formative years. Many thanks for all you do”

As you can imagine, this email was a huge day brighter. And it inspired me to call one of MY former teachers. I had not talked with him in 30 years.

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The Sputnik Shock

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Remember Sputnik? For many, it’s just a dim memory from a history book. But for those of us who were youngsters on October 4,1957, it was stunning and shocking. We were growing up in a country that was, frankly, kind of arrogant.

America had led the coalition that won World War II. People all over the world seemed fascinated with American movies and music. The 1950s were an optimistic time, when American power seemed limitless.

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New test results provide clarity & confusion

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If you are paying attention, you’re confused. That’s my reaction to the release last week of National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) test scores involving Minnesota students. Fourth and eight grade reading and math results were published.

Minnesota’s two largest daily papers had different headlines, using the same data. The (Minneapolis-based) Star Tribune proclaimed, “State’s kids really are above average.” Their story began, “When it comes to math and reading, Minnesota students are way above the national average.”

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