Meet: Ernest Boyer--Back to basics

NEA Today, Dec 1995 by Merina, Anita

With all the talk about education reform in the past 10 years, why are so many schools still unaffected?

If there's been any failing in school leadership, it's that one program becomes all-consuming and others don't get the same balance of attention. The desire to have a model program isn't enough. We must focus on the local school.

How can we build a model system for all kids?

People have to realize that we already have a tremendous foundation for achieving quality education for all students--the endless dedication of the teachers and staff. These are the people who perform heroic acts every day despite working in crumbling buildings and with dwindling resources. Most school critics couldn't survive a week in the schools they condemn.