Science in Early Education
http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=start-science-sooner
The most complex concepts in science really aren't that complex.  Science comes down to simple ideas that can be conveyed conceptually to younger children.  A 9 year old can understand quantum phyisics, conceptually that is.  With a strong understanding of math a student can then work intensively with it. 

Philosophy at an Early Age
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/18/education/edlife/18philosophy-t.html?emc=eta1
These are outstanding and necessary programs but i want to see this idea instantiated in all grade levels.  While formulating and lobbying for fundamental changes I will push to get these sorts of programs in our schools quickly in the meantime. 

National Standards Initiative (Math and English)  
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/11/education/11educ.html?emc=eta1
This group acknowledges the issue of varying standards across states.  However the thing that they haven't focused on, which is the most important, is the 'How'.  It's how things are taught that truly matter.  It's the way concepts are explored that helps a student's understanding, develops their abilities, and gives them true knowledge of a subject.  What often happens is that a student will be able to associate terms and ideas but will not understand the concepts and meaning behind those terms (See my research page for more).  Uniformity is needed so that all students in all schools are relatively on the same level, but what kind of uniformity?  I dont believe these standards are it.  They don't even have proposals for specific supplements and literature. 

School Uniforms Policy for All Alachua County Public Schools Passed
http://www.gainesville.com/article/20100602/ARTICLES/100609866/1118?tc=ar
An irrational and unpopular decision by our county school board.  This passed despite the fact that all 7 high school pricipals urged the board not to and that research conclusively shows that uniforms do not have a positive affect on students' attendance, behavior, substance use, or academic performance.  The principals and most dissenters argue that there hasn't been a real need for a new policy, all that is necessary is enforcement of policies already in place. 
Check out www.NoToPolos.com to see the letter from the principals and for more news and info on this issue.

State Standard Changes (Texas)
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/13/education/13texas.html?emc=eta1
Changes to current standards are needed, however, this attempt looks like agendas are being pushed rather than ideas being clarified or revisited.  Also they are making more standards written in a way that will force students to memorize more names instead of analyzing or understanding history.

John Stewart's Hilarious Criticism of Texas School Board, A must see.....
http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/wed-march-17-2010/don-t-mess-with-textbooks


Uniforms for All Alachua County Schools
http://www.gainesville.com/article/20100320/ARTICLES/3201003/1002/NEWS01?Title=View-uniform-proposal-online-
The school board is trying to pass a proposal for all k-12 schools to have uniform dress code.  Yes thats exactly what we need to be focusing on, school uniforms, I mean its not as if there are huge fundamental problems with education right?