While I usually report on the national Education Gadfly, don't be confused: we have a sister publication called the Ohio Education Gadfly, which chronicles and comments on issues in our home state. It's published biweekly on Wednesdays and it's definitely worth a read.
In the top spot, Terry explains why criticisms of Ohio Governor Ted Strickland's education finance plan deserve some attention. Since Strickland's office has been playing games rather than responding to these valid critiques, we have to wonder if they know the plan in bunk, too. What will be the next development in this funding saga? Find out here. Then, Suzannah breaks down how online learning might be damaged by Strickland's cuts to cyber-charter school funds. Since online learning can offer more and better courses to students who otherwise would not have access to them, the damage done to these schools could have serious negative repercussions for Ohio's students.
Next, Mike Lafferty and Terry take a look at issues "on the hill"--that is, the capitol hill of Ohio's Columbus. Seems the same adviser who assessed Massachusetts' standards for 21st century skills has relocated to the mid-west. Will she try to water down Ohio's standards as she recommended in the Bay State? Read it here. And, according to Terry's analysis, Governor Strickland and President Obama disagree on a host of important education issues. What will this mean for Ohio? Find out here. Finally, Mike Lafferty assesses Ohio's pension system and the "eight percent solution" and Amber explains the positive findings of the DC voucher program study.
All this and more, right here.
