Audio By Carbonatix
No matter how you parse it, the Dallas Independent School District’s new do-over (or don’t, whatever) policy when it comes to homework and tests doesn’t sound good — which is why it winds up on Page 2 of The Wall Street Journal this morning. The intention’s good — cutting dropout rates, and Dallas is No. 2 in the state, barely behind San Antonio — but the road to hell and all that, say the Dallas teachers and parents interviewed for the story.
Also not buying it: professors from the University of Washington and Northwestern University who think Dallas is teaching all the wrong lessons here. Says David Figlio, a professor of education policy and public economics at Northwestern: “It wouldn’t surprise me at all if it helps on the margin with the dropout problem but ends up reducing the incentive for students to do well. This is a case in which there’s no free lunch.” –Robert Wilonsky
When news happens, Dallas Observer is there —
Your support strengthens our coverage.
We’re aiming to raise $30,000 by December 31, so we can continue covering what matters most to you. If the Dallas Observer matters to you, please take action and contribute today, so when news happens, our reporters can be there.
