Check out the links and other information below to find out what's "hot" in education today.

Mathematics Reform
The National Council of Mathematics met recently to discuss mathematics reform. This paper (click on link) discusses the need for mathematic instruction to move away from traditional, rote learning to better prepare students for a changing society. Mathematics reform includes using technology to model and explore ideas and linking math to real-world problem solving.

A Study by the Minority Student Achievement Network
A study was released this week by the Minority Student Achievement Network that says Blacks and Latinos are as likely to be motivated to learn as their white counterparts. When surveyed, Blacks and Hispanic students said they were less likely to understand their teachers’ lessons, indicating teachers may need to rethink their teaching methods. Check out the link listed below for more information.

http://www.cnn.com/2002/EDUCATION/11/19/minority.achievement.ap/index.html

Iowa Excels in Special Education
http://www.dmregister.com/news/stories/c4780927/18833073.html
Iowa is leading the way according to the Presidential Commission on Special Education. They do not use IQ tests to decide on special education placements, but rather try to develop an individual plan for each student in need of assistance. With this system, children need not be eligible for special education before they receive help. Read this article to find out more about their innovative approach to learning.

The Internet's Impact on Teacher Practice and Classroom Culture
By Drs. Douglas W. Green and Thomas O'Brien, Binghamton University http://www.thejournal.com/magazine/vault/A4081B.cfm
The authors studied Internet projects that lasted between three and four weeks. This article examines the changes (and lack of change) taking place in certain classrooms because of computer use – both in school and at home.

Plan for Kids Domain Goes Forward
http://www.wired.com/news/politics/0,1283,52694,00.html
The US Government is going ahead with a plan to create a kid's domain. The domain would prohibit any content that would not be appropriate for children. Find out how the US government plans to execute this idea.

States Teeter When Balancing Standards with Tests
http://www.nytimes.com/2002/05/01/education/01LESS.html
From the New York Times comes an article that shows that standardized tests are not matching up with the state standards. This phenomenon is rampant across the United States. This article will explain why the dichotomy between the test and standards is happening. You will need a login and password to see the whole article but it is free.

The Magna Awards
http://www.asbj.com/magna/index.html
This site highlights schools that really excel in their vision and have been honored by the American School Board Journal. If you would like to nominate your school, use the application form available online.