[CALIBK12] Before considering "entrepreneurial approaches, " let's invest in libraries.

[Stephen Krashen]

Before considering "entrepreneurial approaches," let's invest in libraries.
Sent to the Los Angeles Times, Sept 1.

"Better education through innovation" (August 31) ignores the real problem. Yes, we rank about average on international tests, but, as Gerald Bracey has noted, American students in low poverty schools (25% of students or fewer eligible for free or reduced-price meals) outscore all other countries on the international PIRLS reading test. This confirms what study after study has shown: Poverty and reading proficiency are closely related.  

Research also tells us why: Children with more access to reading material read more and read better, and children of poverty have little access to reading material, at home, at school or in their communities. 

The amount of money needed to improve school and public libraries in high-poverty areas is minuscule compared to what we cheerfully spend on massive standardized testing and reading programs that emphasize heavy phonics, all shown to be ineffective in raising reading achievement. 

Before considering "entrepreneurial approaches," let's invest in libraries.

Stephen Krashen



http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/commentary/la-oe-mitchell31-2008aug31,0,5553482.story
Better education through innovation
America's educational system is falling behind. We must find innovative leaders with a vision who can prepare children for the future they deserve.
By Cory Booker, John Doerr and Ted Mitchell
Op-Ed, Los Angeles times
August 31, 2008

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