EAA In Michigan Update

I understand one being concerned about implementing computer based learning in a school. What I do not comprehend is the opposition to change when a school is in the lowest 5% in the state relative to the child's performance. Change is needed; how can it get any worse?

Computer based learning has its challenges. How does one spur the students creativity on a computer? If we switch to a computer based learning system, how does one encourage collaboration by students? I have not seen a good computer program that encourages the arts. Should art be ignored?

Much of the present innovation in the world comes from the United States. There is a reason why China and other countries encourage their youth to spend some of their academic time in the United States. It is for our ability to think outside the box and innovate and we should not lose it.

We need to innovate within these low performing schools and at the same time experiment with computer based learning. Yes we need to try it. These schools are already poor performers; we have very little to lose.

Governor Snyder and Dr. Covington must acknowledge the implementation of the Educational Achievement Authority was a disaster. They implemented it before they were ready and they should not expand it until they get it right. The disaster started with providing incomplete and inaccurate information for public and private grant money. It further appears that from the beginning staffing was inadequate at these new computer based learning schools.

Yes, the EAA needs to slow down and get its act together. Yes, the Governor needs to get more involved and take responsibility for the missteps, but let's continue to fix the problem for the sake of the lowest 5%. It would be wise of the Governor to put someone like David Stephen on the Board of the EAA. He is a young Detroit resident who recently graduated from  U of D Law School and went to Cass Tech. He has Democratic leanings and is highly respected in the community. (I want to make it clear that Mr. Stephen is not aware of my recommendation and for all know may turn it down if offered.) My point is we will have more light shining on the EAA with someone like David involved .

I am concerned politics, including that of unions and politicians, are interfering with results.