INTRODUCTION

COPYRIGHT NELLIE JACOBS, 2008
"The primary interest of everybody involved in the education of children is to help each child be as successful as possible..." Nellie Jacobs, Grading the Teacher

The beginning of each school year is normally a tense time for everyone involved in education. Students anxiously anticipate a new school, grade, classmates and teachers. Teachers hope their carefully prepared lessons will be challenging to, as well as absorbed by, their pupils. It takes time for both to adjust to each other's expectations - and peculiarities. Parents worry whether their children are starting the year on the right foot, making a good impression on the teacher, and keeping up with the workload.

These times, however, are definitely not normal. Their uncertainties are the reason for this column. Consider the following contentious issues: funding cutbacks, public school closings, reduction of teachers' aides to students with special needs, fewer extra curricular activities, unprecedented retirements of experienced educators, and massive hiring of new graduates.

What does all this mean? If we are parents of school-age children, more than ever we must be diligent about the quality of their education. If we are teachers, we must solicit the involvement and support of our students' parents. If we are students, we must be particularly responsible and communicative in order to get the best education possible.

"CLASS ACTION" is an evolving, interactive forum open to anyone interested in our children's education. Are you a parent, student or educator with school solutions, opinions, experiences and stories you want to share? Please contribute. I invite experts in the field to discuss pressing issues in education. We'd love to hear from each one of you. Humour is welcome.

Parents: If you are having problems, perhaps we can help you find solutions.

Teachers: What are five rules parents or students should follow when dealing with schools or teachers? What are your expectations of your students, parents, yourself?

Students: What makes a good teacher and lesson? What would you like to see improved at your school?

Participate in our discussions; click on the "Post a Comment" button below. If you prefer to communicate with me directly, email nellie@nelliejacobs.com with "Class Action" in the subject line.

-Nellie