Public and Professional Discourse (Part 4) > return to index
Conclusion
by W. Gary Martin

We need creative channels to get our messages out…

• List serves
• Web sites

Example: MathematicallySane.com (membership numbers)

The Critics' Targets

• The NCTM Standards
• Curriculum Projects
• Districts engaged in reform (textbook adoption)
• State and local standards
• Federal policy
• But NOT Principles and Standards.
  • WHY NOT?
  • Are the messages working?
  • Or is it irrelevant?

The New Battleground

• State Standards are likely to be the key
• The new definition of “standards-based”
• Preliminary findings from SIRG
  • 62% of state supervisors claimed PSSM as having a "major influence" on the most recent revision of their state's standards
  • 16% claimed "minor" or "no influence"
  • Those just starting a revision unanimously named it a “major influence” (7 states)

SUGGESTION

• We are well-positioned to win important battles at the state level.
• We need to make sure our voices are heard.

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