Math without a calculator. There is no one skill that stands head and shoulders above the others. It is the blending of these answers that creates a definable sense of what skills are necessary. Educators understand that there is much that students should know and that there must be multiple indicators to assess that knowledge. No single criterion, such as the MCAS test, can or should be used as the sole indicator of a student's abilities.
Teachers are committed to high standards in the classrooms and schools.
They are committed to using multiple methods and strategies to provide students with the practical and intellectuals skills that they need in today's world. Catherine Boudreau is vice president of the Massachusetts Teachers Association. Today I asked them to write down their ideas of what skills and abilities they thought they should have acquired by the time they graduate from high school. I was thrilled to see their solid understanding of how reading and writing are linked to success. As a teacher, I know that these two skills are the most critical factors in a child's future accomplishments.