Six College of the Holy Cross alumni in the field of education policy gathered in Rehm Library for what Telegram & Gazette reporter, Sara Schweiger, called “a passionate exchange of ideas.” Organized by Holy Cross’ assistant professor of education, Jack Schneider, the panel discussion focused on big ticket items currently being addressed in the field of educational reform. Although most of the panelists now work or run organizations that aim to address these issues, each brings an extended background in directly working in schools. Despite their varied involvements, they all agreed that the leading concern for today’s educational system is teacher retention.
One alumni panelist, Simon Hess '93, said, “Data shows the single most important factor (in students' success) is the quality of teachers. Should we have stayed in our classrooms? People don't actually stay in teaching very long. I worry we don't have the mature veteran teacher voices we need in our schools."
The panelists continued to discuss the effect of programs like Teach for America and the changing nature of the professional world on the educational system in the United States.
This “Holy Cross in the News” item by Evangelia Stefanakos ’14.
