Rationale for Change
Districts participating in the Hair on Fire project agreed with the following rationale as to why our schools needed to change:
- Previously the focus of education has been on teaching; we must now shift the focus to learning for students and educators.
- If students are to be career and college ready, a more rigorous, relevant, and student-based approach is vital for their success.
- We must improve student learning to improve student achievement.
The following foundational beliefs will be held by participants in the project:
- Success is measured through learning. Student and educator learning matters.
- Learning decisions in schools are based on data and made in the best interest of students.
- For true career and college readiness in the 21st century, a student-centered approach is needed.
- As a community of learners, we must be committed to rigor, self-reflection, and risk-taking.
“I am convinced that this new generation of state assessments will be an absolute game-changer in public education. For the first time, millions of schoolchildren, parents, and teachers will know if students are on-track for colleges and careers – and if they are ready to enter college without the need for remedial instruction.”
– Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan September 2, 2010