A fool's errand

Common Core, the gift that keeps on giving. Giving lower math and reading scores. Giving teachers and parents stress and anxiety. Giving textbook and test designers millions of dollars. And giving more power to the Central Government.

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The argument is that it is preparing youth for the future. Trouble is we won't know that until it is too late. What we do know is that, armed with solid basics and a desire to learn, students will succeed. We have proof of that. This insane desire to make everybody educationally equal is a fool's errand and a disservice to our kids. It sends a message that they are not going to succeed until and unless they all function at the same level. It isn't true, we all have different learning styles, natural aptitudes, and interest areas. Schools worked best when they were governed locally. If it is necessary to give local districts a set of educational goals, fine. But for heaven sake, leave education to the people in the field. Sylvia E. Warren Englewood, FL

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