It’s time to revisit graduation requirements
It’s been eight years since any significant changes have been made to Kentucky’s graduation requirements. Eight years is a long time in our economy.
Creating a new focus on literacy
As parents and educators, we need to recognize that teaching children to be literate citizens has its place in all of the classes we teach in Kentucky’s schools.
Why CTE Matters
February is national Career and Technical Education Month. I think it its a great idea to have a month where we as a nation can take the time to learn more about and appreciate all that career and technical education offers our students.
Pushing forward
2018 holds the potential for foundational changes that will lead to a stronger and more effective system of public education in Kentucky. However, we are at a pivotal point in the Commonwealth.
Student input vital in education
One of the curious things in education is while we tend to seek input from educators, parents and community members when making policy decisions, we don’t always seek input from those who are affected most by those decisions – the students.
Counselors play vital role in preparing children for life
The role of the school counselor has changed pretty dramatically since most of us were in school. At the Kentucky Department of Education, we realize the important role that counselors play in each and every school.
Kentucky’s new accountability system designed to push education forward
After almost two years, more than 20 town hall meetings and thousands of public comments, Kentucky finally has a new accountability system and it is one of which we all should be proud.
Meeting the mental and emotional needs of children
While we – as educators and parents – often talk about academic achievement, it’s not the only concern I have as Kentucky's commissioner of education. We need to begin talking more often about the social and emotional health of our students
Embracing new opportunities
With the start of the new school year just around the corner, now is a great time for both parents and community members to get involved in their local schools.
How KDE is staying busy during the summer months
As an educator, the one question I hear more than almost any other is, “Do you get the summers off?” In a word, no.