Do you think you should have say in any—and every—aspect of your child’s school curriculum?
What about your neighbor? Or how about the crank who shows up at every school committee meeting, complaining about everything in the curriculum?
In N.H., that may begin happening soon. The state Legislature recently approved a new law that allows parents to challenge any aspect of a school’s curriculum they disagree with, and request the substitution of lessons they prefer.
The substituted material must be approved by the local school district—and the parents in question will have to foot the bill for the materials.
What do you think of this N.H. law? Do you agree with it, as did the majority of the state’s legislators who approved it after overriding the governor's veto? Do you think it’s opening a can of worms for teachers, schools … and students? Let us know by speaking out here!
Posted by - Joe C on Jan. 13, 2012
As much as we all would to find some way to individualize education for every student, there needs to be some curricular structure.What can be differentiated for each student is encouraging them to apply their own unique perspective to the common concepts and information they are learning. That starts with self exploration and understanding outside the classroom.
Posted by - John H on Jan. 12, 2012
It may mean that some teachers will teach to the lowest common denominator, giving equal weight to every fringe, trying not to offend or upset anyone. Either that or they'll have to teach multiple versions of the same subject. It makes no sense. If a parent wants their kid to know about "intelligent design," fine, but do it at home..Posted by - Graham on Jan. 12, 2012
Even if parents don't agree with something in the curriculum, it's still important for their child to learn it and be aware that it's part of the core curriculum. Then parents can talk to their child at home about their difference of opinion. Parents shouldn't be telling teachers what they should be teaching!Posted by - Cherie on Jan. 12, 2012
Another indication of how fractured we are as a society. Whatever happened to E Pluribus Unum?Posted by - Sandi Rygiel on Jan. 12, 2012
Whoa - this is a potential nightmare. I taught for 20 years and my heart goes out to the classroom teacher who will have to accommodate every extreme, idiosyncratic preference that is submitted....as if they don't have enough to do. This from a state that claims "Live Free or Die "...