Are you thinking about homeschooling your child? Perhaps you’re 90% sure you’re going to jump in but would like one more piece of information to convince yourself to take the leap, or maybe you’re already on your homeschooling adventure and want to give your child something for motivation.
Standardized testing is a cornerstone of American education, but does it really measure student success? In this article, we explore the negative effects of standardized tests, from stifling creativity to causing test anxiety. We also discuss alternative ways to promote real learning, such as portfolio assessments, differentiated instruction, and active learning strategies. Discover why standardized testing might not be the best approach for all students and how educators can use more effective methods to assess student progress.
Education management organizations (EMOs) play a significant role in the operation of charter schools, offering autonomy from traditional public school systems. In this article, we explore what EMOs are, how they manage charter schools, and the pros and cons of their involvement. We also discuss the importance of oversight in EMO-run schools and the potential challenges they face, including teacher turnover and curriculum limitations. Learn more about the rise of EMOs and whether an EMO-managed school is the right choice for your child.
Charter schools offer a flexible alternative to traditional public education, giving parents more control over their child’s learning. This article explores the key features of charter schools, their pros and cons, and how they differ from public schools. We also cover virtual charter schools as an option for families seeking flexibility. Learn how to choose the best charter school for your child based on the school’s goals and accountability measures.
This article explores the trends in pre- and post-pandemic reading levels, highlighting the challenges students face with reading comprehension, the connection between income and literacy, and the impact of school closures. It discusses how the pandemic further worsened falling literacy rates but also shed light on the importance of parents reading to their children during lockdowns.
Explore the importance of critical thinking for children’s development and how schools often overlook this vital skill. Learn practical ways parents can foster critical thinking at home, from answering “why” questions to encouraging open-minded discussions. Discover how critical thinking can prepare children for success in today’s information-driven world.
“It’s a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don’t keep your
In Part 2 of the Falling Literacy Rates series, we shift our focus from children’s reading levels to the declining reading habits of adults. Despite an increase in book sales, research shows that adults, especially avid readers, are reading fewer books than in previous decades. We explore how this decline in adult literacy impacts children’s reading habits and discuss the global literacy crisis exacerbated by pandemic lockdowns. Discover practical tips on how parents can model reading habits, build their child’s curiosity, and keep literacy levels high at home. Stay tuned for more in-depth articles and resources from One-Room Education.
Part 1 of our series on falling literacy rates explores how the pandemic and parental involvement are shaping the future of literacy in America. We examine historical trends, the decline of children’s reading habits, and the critical role parents play in fostering literacy development.