We must have small classes with teachers who are experts on reading and who can help all children to become good, independent readers by age 8. If we accomplish this one goal, a lot of our other education problems in the later grades will go away all by themselves. Research shows that a combination of the two is the best way to go. So let's stop fighting about reading and start teaching reading. The arts must become a part of every student's basic education.
Children love to sing and dance and draw and create.
The arts aren't a frill, they're a thrill for children. It's time to stop thinking we can get good teachers on the cheap . Let's get a handle on this issue of teacher pay once and for all. Teachers can use the extra time to teach summer school, to participate in professional development activities, to attend early childhood or reading training sessions, and so on. Let's concentrate on leadership.