Here’s an education Rorschach Test: Read this story from the San Francisco Chronicle about Oakland’s Monarch Academy, and watch this multimedia slide show.
Principal Tatiana Epanchin demands more testing than other schools do, believing it’s the key to success – a controversial view to some. They test during recess. They give practice tests. They hold pep rallies before tests. She uses the tests to frequently assess every child, determining who needs help. No child is left behind or left alone.
What do you see? A high-standards, no excuses elementary school that prizes excellence? Or something less than that?
