Learning Matters

I am not someone who readily adapts to new technology (case in point, I still use a fountain pen). But when Dick and Margaret invited me to become a blogger and write about education I said "why not" and here I am. Of course it seems everyone has a blog these days. In the old days you caught up with people at the post office or the town dump where you exchanged information, checked up on the gossip, and mapped out strategy for dealing with the issues of the day. Well, like fountain pens, I guess the time for that has come and gone. Welcome to the blogosphere.

There are three things you need to know about me. First, we live in Lowell and my daughter attends a charter school. Second, I helped draft and pass the Massachusetts Education Reform Act of 1993 (Yes, at one time, I both understood and could explain to others the foundation budget formula). And three, I believe learning matters a lot and we need to do a much better job helping more children -- and adults -- become proficient in the skills and knowledge they need to earn a living and become responsible citizens. My job lets me work on lifelong learning issues and I will use this space to present my thoughts about the neighborhood school in the context of the global competition for talent our kids face today -- or something like that. Please disagree with me and let me hear what you have to say. And let me know if you find any good fountain pens around the house. I am always looking for one more.