John's Common Sense Beliefs about
SCHOOL REFORM

de Beck believes that major changes in curriculum and educational strategies require thorough study and full involvement of parents, teacher, and community views.

de Beck understands that the training and the preparation of teachers for change should precede the adoption of major instructional strategies.

de Beck does not accept piecemeal changes of curriculum without full analysis of its scope and sequence and the potential interaction of the change with other disciplines.

de Beck supports full disclosure and open discussion of policy changes with adequate time for consideration of diverse public opinions.

de Beck does not believe in a one-size-fits-all middle school and high school program. Students deserve personal choices...including all forms of liberal arts and career education!

de Beck does not believe in high school tracking strategies as being implemented in the Blueprint for Student Success in a Standards Based System. All high school students should have access to the full comprehensive curriculum.

de Beck believes that students who do not earn a "C" or better in required 8th grade subjects should remain in the 8th grade until the standards are met. Eighth grade programs that provide enrichment and remediation... not repeated classes... are better motivation than the present practice of social promotion to high school!

de Beck expects all students to have access to courses in demanding music, art, career and vocational education in all high school grades as a part of their comprehensive education.

de Beck wants every high school student to have complete academic and vocational counseling every year, to provide them and their parents with full disclosure of each student's graduation progress and current educational options.

Please e-mail questions or comments to: info@johndebeck.com