Aug 26, 2017, Hagerstown (MD) Herald Mail: Two-thirds of Washington County Public Schools students failed standardized tests last year http://www.heraldmailmedia.com/news/education/two-thirds-of-washington-county-public-schools-students-failed-standardized/article_36eaf612-8a99-11e7-b414-ebebb Two out of every three Washington County Public Schools students failed standardized English and mathematics exams last year. While some student segments saw improvements in their scores, the majority of test-taking groups in county elementary, middle and high schools saw declines in those who met or exceeded standards in both subjects, according to data released this week by the Maryland State Department of Education…. Two years ago, the school system began a restructuring process to place more emphasis on professional development and curriculum that better prepares students. ...
Childhood Lost
Children today are noticeably different from previous generations, and the proof is in the news coverage we see every day. This site shows you what’s happening in schools around the world. Children are increasingly disabled and chronically ill, and the education system has to accommodate them. Things we've long associated with autism, like sensory issues, repetitive behaviors, anxiety and lack of social skills, are now problems affecting mainstream students. Blame is predictably placed on bad parenting (otherwise known as trauma from home).
Addressing mental health needs is as important as academics for modern educators. This is an unrecognized disaster. The stories here are about children who can’t learn or behave like children have always been expected to. What childhood has become is a chilling portent for the future of mankind.