Respect where respect is due!

I came across this today and I have to say that he is right on!  I really appreciate what he has to say about standardized testing and the demonizing of teachers.  Go Matt Damon.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HqOub-heGQc&feature=player_embedded

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WFHJkvEwyhk&feature=player_embedded

And here is my own personal hero Jonathon Kozol whom I once had the pleasure of meeting during a book signing for "Amazing Grace".  He took the time to ask me in what capacity I worked with children.  I was in line with a bunch of teachers from UC Berkeley.  I told him I was just a nanny.  Well, he set me straight in a hurry.  He told me I was not JUST a nanny- that the difference I was making in those children's life was immeasurable in whatever capacity that happened to be.  He schooled me firmly but with such compassion.  I adore this man.

http://youtu.be/Sl8ESi_XPT0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPDLiB3J2Wc&feature=related


"Instead of seeing these children for the blessings that they are, we are measuring them only by the standard of whether they will be future deficits or assets for our nation's competitive needs." -Jonathan Kozol

A lovely quote from Bev Bos

Children were not born to walk. They were born to run-- barefoot, over rocks, through the water, through the mud. We need to give greater recognition to the energy and joy of children.” -- Bev Boss