Even before Hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans and parts of southern Louisiana, the seeds had already been sown for reforming public education in the state. But it was seven years ago that school reform began in earnest in the wake of Katrina.
WWLTV.com's new Opinion section is examining school reform in Louisiana, with a host of opinion pieces from a variety of perspectives on this contentious subject as the writers grade the school reform seven years later.
- New Orleans schools outperform the nation in graduating students on time. Education reform advocate Leslie Jacobs says new data about New Orleans schools is a reason for celebration. (See editorial)
- "Our state is addicted to creationism. We have a creationism law, the misnamed and misguided Louisiana Science Education Act (LSEA). This law allows creationism to be snuck into public school science classes using unreviewed “supplemental textbooks” that are meant to “critique” science that is widely accepted by scientists" -- Zack Kopplin looks at the role of creationism and evolution in Louisiana schools, particularly with school vouchers. (See editorial)
- Are New Orleans better off seven years later? Karran Harper Royal says it depends who you ask. "If you are a New Orleans Public School parent, you may have a mixed reaction. Some are very disappointed that after trying school after school they have yet to find this miracle of success that they have heard so much about," she writes. (See editorial)
- The sweeping reforms have fundementally changed New Orleans schools and for the better, says Patrick Dobard, superintendent for RSD. "Education reform has been a game-changer for the city of New Orleans. Our successes serve as validation that we are on the right track," he writes. (See editorial)
- Former Teacher for America teacher Kimberly Sanfeliz discusses the positive impact TFA educators have had in New Orleans classrooms. (See editorial)
- Steve Monaghan, president of Louisiana Federation of Teachers writes about Gov. Bobby Jindal's approach toward public school teachers and public education: "(Gov.) Jindal’s approach to education is typified by an apparent disdain for those who have made the profession their life’s calling. (See editorial)
