Walt Gardner's Reality Check
Walt Gardner taught for 28 years in the Los Angeles Unified School District and was a lecturer in the UCLA Graduate School of Education. This blog is no longer being updated.
Education
Opinion
No Wonder Test Results Disappoint
As long as local control of education exists, there will always be huge gaps between standardized test scores and classroom grades.
Education
Opinion
The Misunderstood Teacher Shortage
If teaching in public schools is such a plum, then why can't districts fill their classrooms?
Education
Opinion
Teachers' Pensions Are Precarious
Promises made to teachers constitute a contract that cannot be unilaterally altered.
Education
Opinion
No Glass Ceiling for Women Principals
The principal's office as the province of members of the boys club is an anachronism.
Education
Opinion
Preschool Benefits Last
The benefits of preschool will be sorely tested when students enter middle school.
Education
Opinion
'Educational Genomics' in the Classroom
Although genes are crucial, they do not work in a vacuum.
Education
Opinion
People Still Want Public Schools
Despite massive funding from groups to mold public opinion against public schools, voters don't go along.
Education
Opinion
Total Immersion in English Has Its Place
Total immersion in learning a new language still has a place.
Education
Opinion
The California Testing-Funding Paradox
As the number of charter schools continues to grow, voters in California will be forced to examine their largess.
Education
Opinion
Redrawing Zones to Integrate Schools
I support integrating schools, but it has to be done fairly.
Education
Opinion
How to Choose a Good School
Choosing the right school is a little like choosing the right house.
Education
Opinion
Civics Education Faces Reality
Students today are more sophisticated than in the past, resulting in the questionable relevancy of civics classes to them.