They say the definition of insanity is continuing to do the same thing but expecting different results. Tennessee adopted the Common Core State Standards in 2010. Prior to this adoption we received an “F” for failing to give our students the knowledge and skills needed to compete in today’s workforce. I believe the Common Core…
The State Collaborative on Reforming Education (SCORE) has re-launched its website, www.tnscore.org, with a bright new design. Here are seven reasons you should drop by for a visit. 1. Easy access to SCORE policy memos and other reports. SCORE is a research and advocacy institution, and we are data-driven when it comes to developing policy…
The Students Rise to the Challenge scholarship competition has picked 14 semifinalists to compete for three $250 scholarships. Now, the State Collaborative on Reforming Education (SCORE) is asking for your help determining the finalists. The competition provides a way for students to add their voices to the conversation that is helping to shape the future…
The State Collaborative on Reforming Education (SCORE) today announced that David Mansouri has been named Executive Vice President. The announcement was made by SCORE President and CEO Jamie Woodson. “David Mansouri is a bright star in Tennessee’s work to dramatically improve student achievement,” Woodson said. “David’s new role is a reflection of the outstanding work…
Since the State Collaborative on Reforming Education (SCORE) was launched in 2009, Tennesseans have dedicated themselves to improving student achievement in our state. This commitment – in leadership, policy, and practice – has led Tennessee to a significant milestone. In 2013, the Nation’s Report Card confirmed that Tennessee is now the fastest-improving state in the…
The State Collaborative on Reforming Education (SCORE) today released 2013-14 State of Education in Tennessee, a comprehensive annual report that assesses Tennessee’s recent work to improve K-12 student academic performance and identifies five priorities for public education this year. The 52-page report was released by SCORE’s founder and chairman, Senator Bill Frist, M.D., at an…
When I first started my internship with SCORE, I remember hearing a lot about SCORE’s commitment to “sharing best practices.” At the time, I knew very little about what that meant, or what that would look like. Over the course of the semester however, I became familiar with what some of the best practices throughout…
In 1981 Barbara Mandrell released the song “I Was Country, When Country Wasn’t Cool.” In the song, Mandrell reflected on the things she did that were country before others found them to be “cool” and began to mimic those same things. In many ways, Career and Technical Education teachers could make the same proclamation about…
I know that it sounds like something fundamental. Every day the teacher assigns math homework, and the next day the students and teacher go over it together. It just makes sense. For years it has been a staple part of the lesson experience in my classroom. In recent years, I have not participated in that…
For many students, high school isn’t just about what one learns, it’s also about finding one’s path. The teachers and administrators at Oak Ridge High School, a 2013 SCORE Prize Finalist, understand that and make it a goal to educate the whole student and help their students discover what they’re most passionate about.
At Maryville High School the focus is on producing exceptionally well-rounded students who are prepared for all opportunities that may arise in post-secondary education and the workforce.
Social media is amazing, not just for the ability to connect us in real time, but also for the living history that we create as we interact with one another. 2013 was a banner year for public education in Tennessee.
Success at Mt. Carmel Elementary, a 2013 SCORE Prize finalist, starts with alignment and collaboration.
McPheeter’s Bend Elementary, a 2013 SCORE Prize finalist, is at the heart of rural Church Hill. School leaders have set a tone of collaboration and family, asking parents, students, and teachers to sign agreements setting high expectations for all.
Some of the most beneficial decisions we school leaders must make are seldom looked upon with praise and admiration at decision time, especially in a school district that is the largest employer in the county. The strategic placement, retention, and hiring of school personnel in order to increase learning outcomes for all students has significantly…
Summary: Kingsport City Schools’ leadership model includes leadership positions found in typical school systems, but also goes well beyond the norm, including opportunities mostly found at the school level, where they are most needed.
In October 1995, I made a decision to exit corporate America IT after 10 years and enter the realm of public K-12 education. It was a decision that I did not make or take lightly. After having taught several adult computer classes at a local technical school, I had discovered how much I loved teaching…
The community in and around Covington has been hard hit over the past several years by the economic downturn and the factory closures that accompanied it. The recipient of the 2013 SCORE Prize for high schools, Covington High School, has raised the bar for its students, and the impact is seen throughout the community as…
Before going on a vacation or beginning a trip, we map out a route and have a plan as to how we are going to get there, what we are going to do, and how we are going to do it. Education is no different.
At Norman Smith Elementary, winner of the 2013 SCORE Prize for elementary schools, there is an expectation that every child can learn.