We Keep Losing The Big Picture

I continue to read about the backlash now from the State of Hawaii deciding that taking the remaining Fridays off of the school calendar for students and teachers was the solution to the budget woes.  Well according to the vocal constituents…I’d say that decision wasn’t in the best interest for students.  (see the Superintendent’s video message)

An editorial in the New York Times I think sums it up brilliantly…I think everyone understands the hardship and impact of the economic crisis when it comes to making tough decisions about what ends up on the chopping block.  What I don’t understand is when (if ever) was it even an option to say that education and instructional days should be part of that solution?  I mean solution to what…more poverty, more under prepared students, more drop outs, more folks dependent on state programs, more truancy, etc?

When did shortening school days ever amount to better prepared students?  We are sacrificing the future gains for an immediate fix and it just doesn’t make good sense…don’t sacrifice students!