Maybe the most insidious modifier in the ongoing disservice we call education reform is “outcome-based.” As in, “To make students voracious readers, use this method.” As in, “To prepare students for four-year colleges, use this method.” Usually “outcome-based” methods are described as “evidence-based.” Bring out the charts and graphs. “Outcome-based” sounds…
DetailsI realize that we in the media constantly ladle concerns on top of worries. You are worried plenty, for instance, by news that Black Friday at most major retailers now will start at 5 a.m. July 5. Today, however, a much greater concern presents itself. It has to do with holiday-themed ice cream. …
DetailsThe Indianapolis Star has apologized, but surely some of its readers ask: Why? The cartoon that it published carried the sentiments of every American who is horrified – horrified, I tell you — about President Obama’s directive on deportations. Drawn by Gary Varvel, it depicts a white family whose Thanksgiving peace is…
DetailsWatching the indescribable sacrifices of America’s infantry in the trenches of World War II, legendary war correspondent Ernie Pyle made a plea in print. Pay for enlisted men overseas made no distinction between those dodging bullets and those in the typist pool. That was wrong, he wrote. Those with mud on their faces…
DetailsThe political Einsteins are flexing their brows over Nov. 4: They cite President Obama’s failure, Dems’ fecklessness, Republicans’ vision and efficacy, Mitch McConnell’s savoir faire. Egads. Sports fans: Is there anything more grating than The Wave? Imagine one that is confined to those in the box seats. Celebrate they can. Yes, stretch…
DetailsIt’s been 14 years since the victors in a dramatic election proved that the people’s will could be wholly secondary to lawyers’ arguments. It wasn’t until 2001 that Bush v. Gore officially was settled by a single vote in the Supreme Court. But the precedent of setting aside a whole bunch of democracy for…
DetailsThe dictionary has nothing more extreme than “extreme.” No “extremer.” No “extremest.” So “State Sen. Dan Patrick” will have to suffice, if you’re talking extreme politics, as opposed to extreme cold, extreme heat or extreme disinterest. Sadly, despite the fact that he’s nearly been shut out in endorsements by the state’s major newspapers,…
Details“The only thing we have to fear is . . . Let’s face it, folks, I’m scared spitless.” So said Franklin Roosevelt in 1933. Well, OK, he didn’t say that. FDR lived through the Great Depression, endured polio and world war, but somehow he didn’t live in fear, like we do in…
DetailsThey warned us. The picture in the paper showed two 60-something women, embracing and kissing, having just been pronounced spouse and spouse. As I looked at the photo, I felt it: a rumbling, crumbling sound. Earth tremor? Landslide? The arrival of unwanted company? Conservatives warned us that legalized same-sex marriage would…
DetailsA controlling school-board clique seeks to sanitize the teaching of American history — scrub away unsightly blemishes like racial oppression and women’s liberation. Should be a piece of cake, right? Sure, except that the students find out about it and voice their outrage loudly. Result: The national media pays attention. The clique…
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