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Math is "Gateway" for College and Career |
Achieve, Inc. Report: Math is Essential Foundation for All Students 
Research has documented that a strong foundation in mathematics that extends at least through Algebra II is a predictor of postsecondary success. Now, a report just issued by Achieve shows how higher-level math courses, where students use abstract reasoning to solve complex problems, help develop the reasoning ability and self-confidence students need to apply to problem-solving in other situations. This cognitive capacity is one of the critical skills and competencies young people need to succeed in college and throughout their lives.
Building Blocks of Success: Higher-Level Math for All Students explores the intellectual and practical benefits to all students of taking higher-level mathematics courses during high school, focusing on college access and success, workplace and career readiness, and personal and U.S. competitiveness. Achieve also has produced a series of brochures examining how mathematics is used in various industries, and underscoring the importance of a rigorous high school curriculum. |
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Teaching, Learning and Leading Survey (TeLLS) |
State's Teachers Given Opportunity to Influence Policy Discussions |
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The success or failure of education policy depends largely on the implementation efforts and daily practice of administrators and classroom teachers. MBAE Board Chairman Maura Banta joined Governor Patrick in inviting inviting all public school educators statewide to express their views about key indicators of school climate that affect teachers' work conditions and ability to raise student achievement by responding to the Massachusetts Teaching, Learning and Leading Survey (MassTeLLS).
The anonymous, online, and secure TeLLS survey is modeled on a similar survey conducted in North Carolina. Aggregated, state-level data will be publicly reported next fall, while more detailed school and district level data will be verified and made available to schools and districts this spring to use in identifying strengths and recognizing areas in need of improvement. Administrators and teachers will be able to access and interpret local-level data to inform discussions about curriculum and instruction, planning time and professional development, and school improvement strategies. State-level policymakers will use this same information to bring teacher voice to the table as they craft and implement education policies.
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Northeastern University Education Policy Fellowship Program |
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Applications Available for 2008-09 |
 The Massachusetts EPFP is a ten-month development program for mid-career professionals in education and related fields. Fellows in the program develop skills and knowledge in the areas of leadership, public policy, and networking. Massachusetts EPFP is part of a network of fifteen state programs sponsored by the Institute for Educational Leadership in Washington, DC.
The Massachusetts EPFP at Northeastern University is an opportunity to: Develop leadership skills and learn about your leadership potential;
Engage in education policy discussions with experts in the field;
Create a network with local, state, and national fellows and alumni.
The program year begins with an overnight retreat in late September and continues from October to May with dinner meetings twice each month. Meetings feature guest speakers and discussion among fellows on topics related to leadership and public policy. Massachusetts participants also meet with over 200 fellows from other states at two national meetings. Applications are available online at the link below.
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