If there is a seed of opportunity buried in every crisis, then there is a chance something good can emerge from the pandemic year of building closures, shifting schedules, and disruptions to school. With the aid of American Rescue Plan funds and enriched by lessons learned from teachers, leaders, students, and parents, state boards with a vision have a chance to remake their education systems. Or—if your vision already seemed powerful to you—to propel it more swiftly forward.
The authors in this issue should inspire state boards of education to take a fresh, post-pandemic look at their systems. The ideas themselves may not be new, but the stress test that schools faced over the last year casts new light on them.
Reshaping Assessment and Accountability in 2021 and Beyond
By Bonnie O'Keefe, Andrew Rotherham and Jennifer O'Neal SchiessData about system performance will continue to lie at the heart of school improvement.
The Role of Technology in Reimagining School
By Kristen Amundson and Andrew KoPandemic or no, states ought to press for better technology for personalized learning and making staff and students safer.
The Greenfield Path to School Improvement
By Frederick HessState Policymakers can help clear away the rubble that impedes vibrant reform.
Transforming Learning through Competency-Based Education
By Susan PatrickStates are adopting a range of policies to personalize student learning and move away from seat-time rules.
Seize the Moment: Double Down on Authentic Learning
By Monica Martinez and Dennis McGrathProject-based learning tied to students' communities and interests readily makes the leap across modes of instruction.
Moving toward Competency-Based Professional Learning
By Melissa Tooley and Joseph HoodMicrocredentials embedded in effective learning systems can promote teacher growth, advancement, and retention.
Kansas Schools Build Resilience amid Redesign
By Valerie NorvilleSchools opt to change their approaches to learning and see gains in adaptability.
Opinion
The NASBE Interview: Russlynn Ali
By Russlynn AliTransforming high schools isn't just an education issue.
State Board Voice: School Is No Longer Just a Place
By Byron ErnestWe need to create space and flexibility for educators' creativity, curiosity, and innovation.
Student Voice: Having an Equal Seat at the Table
By Jasper CoughlinStudent advocacy ought not be equated with ingratitude.
NCOSEA Voice: Student Free Speech and Social Media Posts
By Tiffany LucasThere are many challenges policymakers face that were heightened by the turn toward virtual learning environments.
We the Media: Laying Down a Baseline on School Health Policies
By Renée Rybak LangStates have been making important strides toward ensuring that schools are safe, more supportive learning environments.
From the President’s Pen: The Starfish and the Ocean
By Robert HullAll policies are thus rightly viewed as part of a greater ecosystem.
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