Here in Oklahoma, summer is over. It’s official. Why? Because school has started. “What?” You say, “Already on August 13?” Yes, actually many school systems started yesterday on the 12. Now really, in these economic times of distress…with everyone wanting to be a little thriftier..why wouldn’t you start a little later so that you’re not fighting the August heat. Because the August heat is usually a killer in Oklahoma. So, now every school air conditioner is running full force. I guess when it’s not your money; you’re just not as thrifty. The schools get out like mid-May here, so there is time to readjust their schedule later into the year. Additionally, it just passed in Oklahoma that schools can count hours instead of days to get their full time allotment. So one school is adding hours onto the day and closing on Fridays. I would love that! I know as a working parent that might be difficult, but perhaps in what you save in after school care, you would spend on Friday care. So, maybe it would even out.
On a sidenote that will now become the main issue, I always think it is ironic that some districts that have really short school days (Milwaukee: I’m talking to you) don’t think there is any connection to short school days and low test scores. Now that’s like saying there’s no connection between me being a really good golfer and the hours I practice. Now, sure there are going to be some people who are just naturally good at things and don’t need to practice as much as other people, but we all know to be GREAT at something you have to practice. And to remember that when you’re not practicing-they are. So, why in all areas except education do people accept that you have to practice. I’m a good, quick reader. Why? Because I read a lot. I practice reading all the time. Therefore, I am faster than a lot of other people who don’t read all the time. Sure everyone reads a little everyday. It’s hard to get through the day without reading, but I go into withdrawl if I am not reading a book or two, a magazine and 1-2 newspapers a day. That’s my practice. So schools: start teaching your students how to practice by example. If your school days start after 8 am but end around 2-please examine what you’re doing and the result you’re getting. And then DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT! Which I am sure you will do only to change everything in another year or two. That’s the great thing about schools…there’s always a new reform right around the corner. But sometimes the reform you need is simply more practice.
