Solving the equation on how to educate children

Re “X = Karin (Johnny) > 95%,” Opinion, Feb. 4

Karin Klein is dead-on. Our education system pushes students forward, ready or not, now more than ever. We teachers are given a “pacing plan” for math and language arts. In math, there often is only one day to teach a concept, then the plan moves us on to the next concept. If we don’t stick to the plan, the material covered on the quarterly district test is not completely covered. There is no time for review for those having difficulty.

The pacing plans give students exposure to concepts, but the exams test on mastery. Most students can’t master a concept in one day. Klein’s suggestion of getting out of the rut of grade levels and using ability levels is the best way to deliver to students the education they need and for which they’re ready.

JENNIFER ROBERTS

Torrance

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I question whether Klein did any research whatsoever that substantiates her assertion that students are “corralled into second grade, third grade ... where everyone moves at one pace in all subjects.” Where are these schools?

The schools and teachers that I know are working extraordinarily hard every day to meet the increasingly complex needs of each individual student. If only teaching children were as simple as teaching one skill until it is learned and then moving on to the next. Even cold, uncaring administrators could figure that one out.

I challenge Klein to make her next piece a study of some fourth-grade teachers struggling to teach math to their 32 diverse students.

PHIL COTT

Principal

Webster Elementary School, Malibu

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Klein’s analysis that Johnny’s problem with algebra was a lack of simple third-grade arithmetic skills should be required reading for school boards and teachers unions. If the youth of America are to excel in the future world economy, our schools have to become learning institutions, not just repositories for union members dead set against innovation and looking forward to cushy retirements. Thank God I am old enough to have been taught in a system that demanded excellence if you wanted to pass your grade.

NOEL CHRISTENSEN

Loma Linda