Originally posted on Crazy Normal – the Classroom Exposé: The Common Core goals are clearly stated: “The standards … are designed to ensure students are prepared for today’s entry-level careers, freshman-level college courses, and workforce training programs.” According to bls.gov, in 2013, 26-percent of the 143.9 million jobs [37.4 million] did not require a high… Read more

Originally posted on Diane Ravitch's blog: John Merrow says that Baker Mitchell of North Carolina could teach Jesse James a few tricks about making money. Lesson one: Open charter schools. Lesson two: become the sole supplier of most of the things they must purchase. Lesson three: Keep your books closed because your for-profit corporation… Read more

Originally posted on iLook China: The closest celebration in China to Halloween in the United States is The Hungry Ghost Festival, which is celebrated the 14th or 15th night of the 7th lunar month in July or August. The Ghost Festival, also known as The Hungry Ghost Festival, is a traditional Chinese festival and holiday… Read more

Originally posted on Diane Ravitch's blog: Marshall Tuck, running against educator Tom Torlakson, got a late infusion of huge campaign contributions. Former Mayor Michael Blomberg sent $250,000. Eli Broad sent two checks totaling $1,000,000. Alice L. Walton of the Walmart family sent two gifts totaling $450,000. Carrie Penner (of the same Walton family) sent… Read more

Review and Author Interview: Crazy Is Normal by Lloyd Lofthouse. Read more