Example: You have concerns or do not agree with the new abstract methods of teaching mathematics in the elementary grades: 1. Share your specific concerns with your child's teacher. Ask if traditional methods of mathematics instruction can be used instead of the new methods. 2. Share your specific concerns with the principal. Ask if the teachers have the freedom to teach mathematics with the standard algorithms and to exclude teaching new abstract methods if it is not in the best interest of your student. 3. Share your specific concerns with the superintendent. Ask if the school(s) in the district have the freedom to teach mathematics with the standard algorithms and to exclude teaching new abstract methods if it is not in the best interest of your student. 4. Share your specific concerns with the members of the school board. Explain to the school board that you have spoken with the teacher, principal and superintendent and are now addressing your concern to them. You are concerned about the way math is being taught and request the school board members examine the new standards to see if they are in the best interest of the students of the district. Ask the school board to visit classrooms, talk with teachers, parents and students and see how the new standards are affecting everyone. 5. Share your specific concerns with your senator and representative. The only way to effect change is through the legislature, but they need to hear from parents about how these new standards are affecting children and families. Make copies of homework as examples so that they can see first hand what you are experiencing. |
