Self-flagellation is not as popular in this country as we have seen it is on the other side of the world. Therefore, why seek a position that deals with questions so complicated confusing, and ever changing, yet so vital to a strong democracy?

Similar to the message in the best seller, Blink; too much time, too much information and in the case of education, too much money tends to confuse and blind us regarding the educational needs of our nation’s children. In our system of education, failure pays.

My perspective on the “problem” is somewhat unique to the usual discussion. I came to this simply as a Mom that wanted the very best for her child’s education in our public schools.

Our nation has become well versed in a series of self-perpetuating myths, which we support, to ensure (we hope) a “quality education” for our precious offspring.

• More spending
• Smaller schools
• Smaller classes
• More staff
• Needs-based assessments and interventions
• Today’s children pose unique struggles for schools
• Educators are pedaling as fast as they can to educate all
• Colleges of Education
• Teacher licensure

Do all of the above matter? Sure! However, individually or collectively, they do not ensure a “quality education” for our children; to provide our children the opportunity to reach their highest potential or perhaps, even be taught how to read.

In reality, it is not that complicated and certainly less costly in terms of expenditures and lost human potential to:
1. Focus on curriculum appropriate for the child
2. Provide effective instruction

Our inability to provide appropriate curriculum and effective instruction looms large in every international education ranking of developed countries. Are we winning the race to the bottom or is it only because we are alone on that trajectory?

It was my personal experience that propelled me to devote the last twelve years to research this issue, provide assistance to students, parents and educators concerned with appropriate education, volunteer on committees at the state level, lobby our elected officials, and finally, to file as a candidate for State Superintendent of Public Instruction.