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Too Few Americans Get Important Education Information from Educators

  • 08/20/14

Statement of NASSP Executive Director JoAnn Bartoletti on the 46th Annual PDK/Gallup Poll of the Public's Attitude Toward Public Schools

Reston, VA – The 46th Annual PDK/Gallup Poll revealed the dismaying news that, though many more Americans have heard of Common Core, the vast majority is getting its information from sources other than educators. The data reflect NASSP’s ongoing concern that the college- and career-ready standards movement has become so politicized that political ideology is trumping educational benefit.

Last year’s PDK/Gallup Poll posted high ratings for the credibility of teachers and principals on educational matters. My fervent hope is that more members of the American public will seek out the perspectives of local educators on Common Core; that they attend to the passionate voices of school leaders who are optimistic for the prospects of deep cross-content literacy; that they witness the frustration of educators who have invested incalculable energy in building a culture of success around Common Core, only to have their states abandon them with a sudden change of course; and that they raise their voices in solidarity with educators who cry foul at poor implementation practices that doom Common Core to failure.

For our part, we will continue to encourage and build the capacity of school leaders to amplify their voices. We remain optimistic that those who are closest to the standards and see their daily effects will also capture the greatest attention.

About NASSP
The National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) is the leading organization of and voice for middle level and high school principals, assistant principals, and school leaders from across the United States and 35 countries around the world. The association connects and engages school leaders through advocacy, research, education, and student programs. NASSP advocates on behalf of all school leaders to ensure the success of each student and strengthens school leadership practices through the design and delivery of high-quality professional learning experiences. Reflecting its long-standing commitment to student leadership development, NASSP administers the National Honor Society, National Junior Honor Society, National Elementary Honor Society, and National Association of Student Councils.

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