"Fall" Terms Beginning?

It has been almost a shock to many of us to realize how early the school year is beginning in communities across the country. With increasing alacrity, more and more public school districts, and some independent schools as well, are extending the length of both the school year and the school day. Many Americans quickly accept the premise that more time in the classroom equates to increased learning, and many "educationists" are quick to trot out studies to illustrate this, but it is probably best not to make blind assumptions. Other studies can produce differing results.

One of the main arguments in favor of increased classroom time is the notion that disadvantaged students languish intellectually at home because they do not have the enrichment that affluent or concerned families would provide: music and dance lessons, summer camp, tutoring, etc. However, there is also the risk that forcing additional time at school would further alienate unmotivated students and further erode family ties which may already be shaky. On the other hand, a well organized classroom that offers diverse sources of stimulation and skill development, and one that builds bridges to families and encourages their involvement, could indeed help a struggling student. Yet, realistically, how many classrooms can actually provide that? Most teachers sincerely want to provide the best environment possible, but many of them are not given the resources to do so.

One of the most successful independent schools in the United States is the Thomas Jefferson School, located just outside St. Louis, Missouri. Students there follow a strict classical curriculum and generally gain admittance into the finest colleges and universities in the world. In later life, Thomas Jefferson students have demonstrated a high success rate and broad creative instincts. This year, the autumn semester will begin on September 9, more than a full month later than many conventional schools. The school day is over by noon, but students are expected to remain on campus to pursue various projects and activities and confer with faculty. Vacations are lengthy so that students may use the time to broaden their acquaintance with the world we live in. Yes, Thomas Jefferson parents are almost always extremely supportive--but not always as affluent as opponents of independent schools would have us believe--which gives their children a leg up, but we should be encouraging all families to be likewise, rather than simply assuming that some families are simply incapable of providing better nurturing for their children.

There are many angles to this debate, and this brief column only scratches the surface. Believe it or not, I do see both sides and do understand that extended-year proponents have good intentions. My vision is a bit idealistic here, but ultimately I am a realist. But I still feel we should work towards achieving our ideals. More later on this topic.

Enjoy the rest of the summer. Hopefully we all still have some time off, at least here and there!

Thanks,
Gary