A New Paradigm for Education

"The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results."
—Albert Einstein

With all the discussion about New Mexico’s educational standing compared to the United States’ and the world’s standing, one would believe the powers that be would be seeking and embracing changes and solutions that could radically improve New Mexico’s public schools.  Einstein may not have been talking about the century-old educational model still operating in most of New Mexico’s school districts and serving as a guide for many state policies and regulations, but he certainly could have been.

Southwest Secondary Learning Center (SSLC) bases student progress and advancement on the concept of mastery of learning/content as opposed to the traditional measurement of seat time or the Carnegie Unit.  The vast majority of schools throughout the nation measure student advancement on the model developed by the State of Massachusetts in 1906 by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching for the purpose of establishing a retirement fund for elderly college professors.  The Carnegie Unit was created in order to establish a common teaching standard among various Massachusetts institutions of higher learning to determine professor’s eligibility to receive benefits from Carnegie’s $10 million endowment.  In order to keep students in high schools and from prematurely entering college and to provide colleges with uniform admissions standards, the Carnegie Unit (or credit) developed into the measurement tool for secondary schools nationwide.  The standard “unit” was further refined and defined by the amount of time spent in school for a year, week, day or class period or more simply put “seat time.”  This definition of a high school education as “time served” remains firmly entrenched in New Mexico’s schools.  Graduation, attendance, truancy, school calendars and many other state mandated requirements are all based on this antiquated measure of student achievement.  Southwest Secondary Learning Center, a state chartered charter school, is required to adhere to many state mandated requirements that inhibit moving education into the 21^st century. 

The SSLC founders acted on their belief that students’ advancement should be based on content mastery and not on “seat time” in front of a teacher.  The SSLC model uses computers as tools for instruction and teaches individual learners at the specific moment that the instruction is needed.  This model of teaching individual students instead of classes or periods should be embraced as an alternative to the traditional school paradigm that most New Mexico students and families have no choice but to accept.  SSLC students’ achievement and advancement is not constrained by the traditional classroom model; 4 walls, 35 desks and a “sage on stage.”  Students’ progress through the course outline is based on content mastery and demonstrated proficiency instead of teachers’ lesson plans.  Instruction is one-on-one and remediation is immediate, a rarity in the traditional classroom.  Students’ opportunity to self-direct their education and their parents’ ability to set individual proficiency standards and monitor progress on line is a model that should be examined by all who wish their children to reach their full potential.  Many critics of the education establishment contend that simply spending more money on the same century-old model will not improve education for New Mexico students.  To continue on the same path is truly insane.

U.S. Science Scores Drop: SLC Students Continue to Outperform Nation

 “In a world filled with the products of scientific inquiry, scientific literacy has become a necessity for everyone. Everyone needs to use scientific information to make choices that arise every day. Everyone needs to be able to engage intelligently in public discourse and debate about important issues that involve science and technology.”

 -  The National Committee on Science Education Standards

Although Education Leaders in the United States see the importance of solid science instruction as a part of education, the results of a national exam, released Tuesday, are alarming. The test scores showed that a disturbingly low number of students have advanced skills that could lead to careers in science and technology. Only one percent of fourth and 12^th grade students and two percent of eight grade students scored in the highest group on the 2009 National Assessment of Educational Progress. Less than half of U.S. students were considered proficient in science.

These results are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the lack of scientific literacy in the United States. According to a 2010 science education report, “U.S. mathematics and science education between kindergarten and 12^th grade now ranks 48^th worldwide.” The study also showed that almost half of U.S. adults don’t know how long it takes the Earth to circle the sun. In 2010, China debuted at the top of International Education rankings. China has now replaced the U.S. as the world’s top high-technology exporter.

“Scientific literacy also is of increasing importance in the workplace. More and more jobs demand advanced skills, requiring that people be able to learn, reason, think creatively, make decisions, and solve problems. An understanding of science and the processes of science contributes in an essential way to these skills.”

 - The National Research Council

Since achievement scores for students in the U.S. have stagnated, employers are now forced to seek qualified workers elsewhere. Charles Vest, the head of the National Academy of Engineering, stated, “We have to have a well-educated workforce to create opportunities for young people. Otherwise, we don’t have a chance.” U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan makes the connection between science education and the nation’s economic future clear: “Americans need to wake up to this educational reality, instead of napping at the wheel while emerging competitors prepare their students for economic leadership."  If we continue to allow ineffective science education, our nation will be at the mercy of other world powers that are able to successfully prepare students for the future in a scientifically advanced world.

“The problems that exist in the world today cannot be solved by the level of thinking that created them.”

- Albert Einstein

Amidst all of the negative news about America’s school system, the Southwest Learning Centers stand out as schools that are successfully educating students in science. Last year’s test scores showed that students in the Southwest Learning Centers are far ahead of their peers. Both the fourth and fifth grade classes at Southwest Primary Learning Center scored 100% proficient in science and the sixth grade class was 85% proficient. Seventh grade students in Southwest Intermediate Learning Center earned a 95% proficient rating in science and Southwest Secondary Learning Center’s 11^th graders were 90% proficient in science. When compared to the less than 50% national average, it is clear that the Southwest Learning Centers are effective in science education and understand the importance of scientific literacy. The Southwest Learning Centers strive to show students the practical applications of science in everyday life and for future careers. For example, the flight program offered at the schools shows students the relevance of science in a tangible way. Educators, law-makers, and leaders need to look to the innovative methods of successful schools, such as the Southwest Learning Centers, to find creative ways to improve science education in the United States. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan sums it up: “Our nation’s long-term economic prosperity depends on providing a world class education to all students, especially in mathematics and science.”

Charter School Options Limited Due to Parental Demand

Options for school choice in New Mexico are often more limited than they appear on paper. Although school choice does exist through charter schools and small scholarship programs such as Educate New Mexico, most New Mexican students are unable to take advantage of attending high-performing schools. Most of the State’s top-performing charter schools have long waiting lists. For example, the Southwest Primary, Southwest Intermediate, and Southwest Secondary Learning Centers have a waiting list that exceeds 3,600 students and is growing every day. The Southwest Primary Learning Center averages test scores that are 50% higher than APS and other State schools. At Southwest Intermediate Learning Center, test scores are 40%-50% higher than State and APS scores. Southwest Secondary Learning Center boasts scores that are an average of 30% higher than APS and the State. These three high-achieving schools as well as other charter schools in the state are more successful than their public counterparts.

Successful schools are in high demand for New Mexican students due to the failures of the traditional system. Governor Susana Martinez frames the debate over school choice well: “I have long said it is morally reprehensible to trap kids in failing schools.”  Yet, chances for families to take advantage of school choice in New Mexico are about to get slimmer. If passed, House Bill 120, introduced by Representative Mimi Stewart, will put an end to new charter schools in New Mexico from now until January 1, 2017. With a ranking of 32nd in the nation for education, this bill comes at a time when New Mexico’s families desperately need school choice. Daniel Ulibarri, Executive Director of Educate New Mexico, says, “Not only can New Mexico's children not wait another eight years or more for the schools to improve, but our economy needs — now more than ever — a competent, highly-educated work force and schools that will attract entrepreneurs from across the globe.”

Lawmakers in Santa Fe need to come to the realization that educational reform will not come through limiting options for education in New Mexico. School choice provides competition, which should create a competitive market for students. If enough students opt to attend quality charter schools, the existing public schools system will be forced to modify their approach, or cease to exist. Stanford Economics professor, Caroline M. Hoxby, has conducted extensive research on the economics of school choice and competition in the arena of education. She argues “…when we allowed competition in other areas of American life, say, deregulated some industries, we’ve seen enormous improvements in efficiencies, which in schools, means more achievement.” She goes on to say, “…public schools will be able to improve, especially in response to competition.” This positive competition can only occur if there are enough viable options.

New Mexico Secretary of Education, Hanna Skandera, puts it well: “If school choice is given a fair chance, its success or failure should be determined by results. If successful, all students – those that stay and those that leave the traditional public school system – would be better off, academically and otherwise.” School choice has not been given a fair chance in New Mexico and will not be given a fair chance if House Bill 120 is enacted. Placing a moratorium on all new charter schools for any amount of time will hinder the progress that can be made in educational reform, at a time when transformation of the traditional system is imperative.

President Obama: Capping Charter Schools Contrary to Improving Education

"...That leads me to the fourth part of America’s education strategy – promoting innovation and excellence in America’s schools. One of the places where much of that innovation occurs is in our most effective charter schools... Right now, there are caps on how many charter schools are allowed in some states, no matter how well they are preparing our students. That isn’t good for our children, our economy, or our country. Of course, any expansion of charter schools must not result in the spread of mediocrity, but in the advancement of excellence. That will require states adopting both a rigorous selection and review process to ensure that a charter school’s autonomy is coupled with greater accountability – as well as a strategy, like the one in Chicago, to close charter schools that are not working. Provided this greater accountability, I call on states to reform their charter rules, and lift caps on the number of allowable charter schools, wherever such caps are in place."

President Barack Obama
March 10, 2009

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Twenty-six states and the District of Columbia have some type of limit, or cap, on charter school growth. Most caps restrict the number of charter schools allowed, while others restrict the number of students that a single school can serve.

Caps on charter schools are often the consequence of political trade-offs, and not the result of agreement on sound education policy. For example, frequently policy-makers, concerned about how charter schools may affect an established school district, will mandate restrictions on the number of public charter schools in that specific district.

But the demand for charter schools shows no signs of letting up. An estimated 365,000 students are on charter school wait lists. This is enough to fill over 1,100 new average-sized charter schools. More than half of all charter schools across the country report they have a wait list, with the problem particularly acute in Pennsylvania (27,000), Colorado (25,000), Massachusetts (16,000), New York (12,000), New Mexico (10,000), and Illinois (10,000).  If this demand is to be met, states must reform or eliminate their caps on charter schools, while continuing to utilize appropriate measures ensuring that new charter schools are of high quality.

Unfortunately, New Mexico has chosen to go a different direction.  On Friday, January 21, 2011, Representative Mimi Stewart introduced House Bill 120.  This bill specifically reads, “a chartering authority shall not accept an application for a new charter school or approve a new charter school between January 1, 2011 and January 1, 2017.”

If enacted, this bill will eliminate school choice in New Mexico.  The bill has been supported by the New Mexico School Boards Association, New Mexico Administrators Association, the Legislative Education Study Committee (co-chaired by Representative Rick Miera and Senator Cynthia Nava), and the Board of Education for the Albuquerque Public Schools.

New Mexico Charter Schools: A Model for Success

Charter schools were created with the idea that one size does not fit all when it comes to education. Inspired and passionate educators wanted to have the ability to make quality education accessible to all students, promote parent and community involvement in public education, and provide a system of responsibility for results in education. Charter schools are granted more autonomy than traditional district schools in exchange for being held more accountable for student achievement. Many skeptics question whether charter schools are really succeeding and would even go so far as to say they should be closed. A look at the facts shows that New Mexico’s charter schools are raising the bar for academic success, providing unique educational opportunities, and innovatively meeting the needs of diverse students and their families.

            New Mexico’s charter schools are academically successful. The National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S Department of Education rated New Mexico’s top ten high schools; five of the ten were charter schools. Southwest Secondary Learning Center, Albuquerque Institute of Math and Science, Academy for Technology and the Classics, East Mountain High School, and Cottonwood Classical Academy made the top of the list. For the year 2010, 50% of New Mexico’s Charter Schools made Adequate Yearly Progress compared to only 41% of district schools. Charter schools are challenging the traditional public school system, achieving great things, and offering parents and families choices in education.

            Exciting and creative educational opportunities are the norm at charter schools in New Mexico. In addition to providing the required academic classes, many charter schools offer creative and engaging programs to students. For example, Southwest Learning Center offers a state of the art flight program which allows students to work towards obtaining a pilot’s license while earning a diploma. The Digital Arts and Technology Academy offers a smoking cessation program which provides resources and support to students trying to break free of their addiction. At Amy Biehl Charter School, students must complete a year-long community service project in order to fulfill all requirements for graduation. Due to the flexible scheduling introduced and offered by charter schools, many students are able to take advantage of dual enrollment programs to earn college credits. 11.6% of all charter high school students participate in the dual enrollment program at Central New Mexico Community College while only 3.1% of Albuquerque Public School Students participate. At Southwest Secondary Learning Center the dual enrollment participation rate is 41%. Charter schools inarguably cater to students’ individual goals and needs with unique and innovative programs.

            New Mexico’s charter schools provide a quality education to some of the most underserved and underprivileged students in the state. Charter schools help these disadvantaged students succeed where the conventional system has failed. Over 45% of students in charter schools are Hispanic compared to the 36% average in many larger New Mexico districts. Most districts have an African American population of less than 2% while charter schools serve a 6% population of African Americans. 61% of students served by New Mexico’s charter schools come from low-income families and qualify for free or reduced lunch programs; only 52% of low-income students are part of the traditional district student population. Because of the smaller class sizes (charter school student teacher ratios are an average of 10 students per teacher while large districts average 25 students per teacher) the engaging opportunities, and the individualized attention these students receive, New Mexico’s charter schools are closing the achievement gap. Because charter school administrations are allowed more flexibility, they are better able to respond to the specific needs of students and families.

            Because of the success of New Mexico’s charter schools, they are becoming an increasingly popular choice for parents and students. Over 10,000 students are enrolled in charter schools across the state and over 10,000 more sit on waiting lists. (The Southwest Learning Centers have a waiting list of over 3,600 students.) Charter schools offer New Mexico’s families options for a quality education that meets students’ individual needs. Charter school students are able to learn in an environment that promotes their academic success and prepares them for their future as successful, responsible citizens of New Mexico. The facts show that charter schools are succeeding academically, consistently advancing education through models of innovation, and are effectively meeting the needs of the students and families of New Mexico.

LFC Downplaying Disaster

The following section was taken from the Legislative Finance Committee report Program Evaluation of New Mexico Charter Schools dated 7/23/10, Report # 10-09.

Despite charter schools’ position that they are dependent on the small school size adjustment, it is not clear that the purpose of size adjustments in the funding formula is to act as a subsidy for the diseconomies of scale that the small school site charter school education programs produce. There has been tacit recognition of these diseconomies; three out of the 16 charter schools LFC staff visited (La Luz Del Monte, La Resolana and Ralph J. Bunche Academy) are sharing facilities with one or more other charter schools that also receive small school size adjustment. Charter schools are envisioned as smaller school sites by choice, and are often located in urban areas where traditional public schools have available space. The purpose of the Charter Schools Act (Section 22-8B-1 NMSA 1978) is “to enable individual schools to structure their educational curriculum to encourage the use of different and innovative teaching methods that are based on reliable research and effective practices or have been replicated successfully in schools with diverse characteristics,” which to a reasonable person could be interpreted as a special program.

It is clear that the Legislative Finance Committee fashioned the language in their report with the intent to eliminate only those small schools that have the leadership and common sense to share facilities in order to achieve a small economy of scale that reduces the building lease costs and serves to increase the operational fund for students. The report cites the Public School Finance Act (Section 22-8-23 (A) NMSA 1978) cites “separate schools established to provide special programs, including but not limited to vocational and alternative education, shall not be classified as public schools for purposes of generating size adjustment program units” as the rationale for deciding that charter schools sharing facilities should be considered as less than public schools, rather they choose to view them as mere special programs.  The concept is laughable if it weren’t being used as a reason for cutting the heart of the funding for charter and other small schools. No reasonable or rational person could conclude that the rigor of beginning and sustaining successful charter schools is a program level endeavor.  The accountability and responsibilities for charter schools is grounded in statute and delineated by the state PEC (Public Education Commission) advised by the PED (Public Education Department) or a local school district as an authorizer.  The Charter School statues clearly identify charter schools as public schools and as such they should be treated like all other public schools in New Mexico.

By carving charters out in carefully worded statutory language, the charters join a number of small schools in tiny districts who will lose growth units or small district support.  The Legislative Finance Committee claims that innovative charters and districts do not deserve small school funding because they choose to share viable  facilities with gymnasiums, libraries, and handicapped accessible bathrooms. 

Instead, they continue to view schools in through an old, outdated paradigm and would opt instead (during a budget crisis) to require taxpayers to incur the costs of separate facilities.  As a comical counterpoint to this rationale, there is also recommended legislation to consolidate small school districts in order to save money (see SB 90). That is exactly what these schools and districts have done …consolidate, following the successful models used by the Albuquerque Academy, Bosque Prep, and the New Mexico Military Institute.

Further, the LFC admitted that, “Exempting charter schools from small school size adjustments will make it more difficult for small charter schools to generate enough money to be self-sufficient and provide educational services to students.”  Here the LFC report is accurate.  The reality is grim because a 30% reduction in a small school budget for these schools and they will be unable to support the legislatively-mandated highly qualified teachers and the program and facility requirements. If legislation is crafted to eliminate the small school adjustment, these exemplary schools will be destroyed and the small school funding will continue to be provided to other small schools that are carved out because they are in separate buildings. A true travesty to taxpayers: lose the highest performing schools and in their place incur additional high cost schools.

New Mexico Charter Schools are underfunded when compared to traditional district public schools.  In an analysis of  charter school funding completed in 2010 by Ball State University, (Titled: CHARTER SCHOOL FUNDING: Inequity Persists) it was found that charter schools in New Mexico receive nine percent less per pupil than do school districts. This is prior to factoring in facility funds which districts have access to and charters do not.  These conclusions are based on a methodology that accurately reflects the true disparity that exists between charter school funding and traditional school funding.  The current funding formula adjustments exist based on the Legislature’s recognition of the unique needs of charter schools and small districts. Further, growth factors for charter schools are limited based on the enrollment cap for the charter school while districts have no such cap on enrollment and can receive the benefit of growth calculations ad infinitum. In smaller schools, fixed operational costs like curriculum development and administration must be distributed among fewer students.  See Lewis D. Solomon, Edison Schools and the Privatization of K-12 Public Education:  A Legal and Policy Analysis, 30 Fordham Urb. L.J. 1281, 1299 (2003) (describing economies of scale in school operation).  Because the cost differential factor used to calculate basic program units is based on estimated operational costs per student, the size adjustment factor addresses the issue that it is essentially more expensive to educate a child in a small school than in a larger one.  It does so by giving additional program units to "approved public school[s]" with small student bodies.  Section22-8-23.  For elementary and junior high schools, a school must have fewer than 200 total enrolled, qualified students to be eligible.  Id.; ' 22-8-2 (definitions).  “Public school” is defined in the "General Provisions" section of the Public School Code as:

“that part of a school district that is a single attendance center in which instruction is offered by one or more teachers and is discernible as a building or group of buildings generally recognized as either an elementary, middle, junior high or high school or any combination of those and includes a charter school.”

While this explanation is long and really difficult to understand, we must remain steadfast in our desire to change legislative minds and have a positive outcome that keeps our kids and our schools safe from seemingly small legislative tweaks that erase us from the educational horizon.

(AP) Carlsbad Newspaper: Small school districts may close

Possible closure faces small school districts

Updated: Sunday, 16 Jan 2011, 1:19 PM MST
Published : Sunday, 16 Jan 2011, 1:19 PM MST

• STELLA DAVIS,Carlsbad Current Argus

LOVING, N.M. (AP) - A proposal to close, consolidate or redistrict small school districts in New Mexico is weighing heavily on the minds of parents in Loving.  Schools Superintendent Kristina Baca, who strongly opposes the idea, said the proposal is on the table but is not a done deal.  However, fearing imminent closure, Baca said several parents have withdrawn children from Loving High School and re-enrolled them at Carlsbad High School. The middle and elementary schools have not seen a shift in student population.

Baca said it's her understanding school redistricting legislation is being drafted and will be proposed during the upcoming 60-day legislative session that begins Tuesday. "The Government Restructuring Task Force has made the recommendation. The task force was formed by former Gov. Bill Richardson to explore ways to reduce the state's budget shortfall," Baca explained.  One area the task force considered was consolidation of small school districts. Baca said there are 89 school districts in New Mexico, and more than 60 percent are considered small.

In a pamphlet sent to Loving parents and others in the community, Baca said "redistricting is premature and an ill-conceived concept to save a few bucks on the backs of small school districts. Consolidation is not the answer to closing the New Mexico funding gap."  Baca has urged parents and district supporters to contact their legislators. Before the Christmas break, some parents in Loving began circulating a petition opposing any proposed legislation to close small school districts.

"We have the ability to speak with a united voice and help our local legislators spread our message. We should not let Santa Fe make decisions for our community and rural New Mexico," Baca told parents.  Baca said research does not support the concept larger school districts will improve learning, nor will it be less expensive. "They don't have a model for that," Baca said. "It will require a costly and time-consuming study. Even if they decide to close and consolidate the small districts, it's not going to happen this year or next year. Also, I think politically, it will face great difficulty."

Baca said she believes if the proposal is approved, small communities like Loving will lose representation as they're absorbed into larger districts. Baca said that until the mid-1980s, when Loving approved a bond to build a high school, students from Loving attending Carlsbad High School had a roughly 50 percent graduation rate. Since the high school opened in Loving, the rate has increased to about 81 percent. One reason may be the low student-teacher ratio of 11 to one.

Parents said the closure of the district would be devastating to students. "It would be a tragedy," said Maria Hernandez, mother of a high school senior. "These kids have grown up together from kindergarten through their senior year. If this happened today, my son would have to start over again at another school. This school is their life. They are like family."
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Information from: Carlsbad Current-Argus

Sharing the News: NM Education Declines to 32nd Nationally

We are struck by the irony of the LFC and the LESC’s recommendation to eliminate the small school size funding for small schools in New Mexico and the most recent Education Week 2011 Quality Counts Education report as reported in a press release from New Mexico’s  new Secretary of Education, Hanna Skandera.   Below is the press release from the NMPED and the NMSBA (New Mexico Standards Based Assessment) scores for the Southwest Learning Centers for comparison.  The three schools, Southwest Primary Learning Center, Southwest Intermediate Learning Center and Southwest Secondary Learning Center have among the highest NM Standards Based Assessment scores in math and reading in the state for 2010. 

We are certain that the “F” grade in the K-12 Achievement category earned by New Mexico in the report is embarrassing and will prompt a call for immediate action for any school in any district that has not met a level of acceptable proficiency.

2010 NMSBA           SPLC          SILC          SSLC          APS          State of NM

Math                         97.6          84.7          74.2          44.4          41.8

Reading                    95.1          97.3          87.9          54.5          53.2

These scores, when objectively compared to the traditional school system, lead one to ask why charter schools continue to be targets of legislators, school boards, and teachers’ unions?  What is the real agenda?  Is the elimination of school choice for thousands of families in New Mexico the ultimate goal? 

We propose that Legislators pass a bill to begin studying the successful charter school models found throughout New Mexico.  And then, move to replicate those models in the traditional school system.  We stand by our happy kids with pleased parents with stellar results in the face of those who would choose to stop our progress and end the dream of a quality, challenging and engaging education for all the kids and the adults.  The consequences of losing three of the most successful schools are so grave and devastating that we can only pray that the strength of our “A+” achievement will take us into the future.  The Southwest Learning Centers and charter schools throughout Albuquerque proudly serve up education differently - saving taxpayer dollars by sharing facilities, utilizing creative scheduling, offering innovative curriculum delivery models and by pursuing a common educational philosophy – a philosophy centered on the child’s needs – not the needs of administrators and teachers.  

The following outlines the details of the Education Week report.  Thank goodness we have the charter schools to keep New Mexico from slipping further down the educational rankings on K-12 Educational Achievement.

Original PED Press Release:

New Mexico Ranked 32^nd and Maintains a C on 2011 Quality Counts Education Report

State Receives an F for K-12 Achievement

(Santa Fe, NM) -- New Mexico received a Quality Counts ranking of 32^nd in the nation and received an overall grade of C in Education Week magazine’s annual education report card, “Uncertain Forecast” released today.

Overall, the Quality Counts report gave New Mexico a C, 75.7 points out of 100 points. Last year, New Mexico received 76.4 points and was ranked 24^th.  In 2009, New Mexico received a C+ and was ranked 22^nd with a score of 76.9.

“While New Mexico maintained its overall C ranking, there is a lot of room for improvement,” said New Mexico Education Secretary Hanna Skandera. “This administration will focus all decisions on what is in the best interest of students.  It is unacceptable that New Mexico has an F in K-12 achievement and that our rankings have decreased each year.  Partnering with students, parents, community leaders, school boards, teachers, principals, and superintendents, we must raise academic achievement and build on proven success. For every decision that needs to be made, we will ask, ‘Are New Mexico students the winners in this decision?’  Our focus must be on the classroom, ensuring greater transparency and fiscal accountability while understanding the unique characteristics of our state, communities, districts and schools. If students are first, New Mexico wins.”

Education Week tracked six areas of policy and performance for this comprehensive assessment of the state of American education.

For more information on this report and New Mexico results, go to http://www.edweek.org/ew/toc/2011/01/13/index.html

"Taxing" Problems for Albuquerque Charter Schools

Every April 15th working Americans must file their federal and state tax returns.  These taxes allow our government to provide basic services to the citizens.  Our state taxes allow state government to provide for education, corrections, police, roads, and water for New Mexicans, all essential for a healthy, robust, quality of life for those who are lucky enough to call the Land of Enchantment home.

However, we have also created a system where local government is taxing state government!  This is reducing the amount of money available to provide these essential services.  It creates larger than necessary budget shortfalls, and it places one group of students at a decided disadvantage when compared to other groups.  This taxation is in the form of property taxes charter schools must pay that districts do not pay!

Article 8, section 3 of the New Mexico Constitution reads “all property used for educational or charitable purposes … shall be exempt from taxation”.  However, county assessors continue charge charter schools (in leased facilities) commercial property tax rates on these facilities used as schools.  In fact, a 1955 Attorney General opinion (#6171) concluded that “it is not the purpose of the organization, but it is the use made of the property that is controlling”.  This opinion was further supported by two court cases.  The first, in 1967 ruled that “use, rather than ownership, is determinative as criteria for exemption from tax liability”.  And, a 1972 Court of Appeals case found that “It is the use of the property, not the declared objectives and purposes of its owner, which determines the right to exemption under this section”.

In light of these rulings, it is unfortunate that the county assessors continue to assess taxes against charter schools that lease facilities – eating up operational dollars that would otherwise be used in the classroom to educate kids.  In the case of the Southwest Learning Center, this practice is costing taxpayers in excess of $36,000 annually and places the school and the students who attend at a disadvantage in terms of per-pupil funding.  This is money that would otherwise go to classroom instruction.  In fact, $36,000 is enough to hire another teacher or two additional educational assistants for an entire year. 

So, next time you hear that charter schools receive more money per student than their traditional school counterparts, refute this with facts.  Fact one, charters actually receive 98% of what traditional schools receive per child.  Fact two, charters must pay for facility costs from operational dollars, something traditional districts don’t have to pay.  Fact three, charters must pay insurance and utility costs from operational dollars something else districts do not pay from operational dollars.  Fact four, charters must pay property taxes, an expense no other public school in New Mexico must incur – and a violation of the New Mexico Constitution!

To discuss this or other issues affecting charter schools with your state representative and state senator, please go to: http://www.sslc-nm.com/links/  and click on the link to “Find Your Legislator” and enter your zip code.  Then, call and write to let them know that charter schools are an important part of the educational options in New Mexico and that you would appreciate their support of charter schools.

Twelve Years Later: Charter Schools Still Fighting in New Mexico

In 1999, the New Mexico legislature passed the Charter School Act in a bipartisan effort.  This legislation sponsored in the Senate by Senator Mark Boitano (R) and Senator Richard Romero (D), and in the House by Bob Perls (D) allowed parents, educators, community members, administrators, or anyone else who thought they had an idea to "provide education in a new and innovative way that would improve student learning" the opportunity to begin their own school. 

The legislation was not without critics.  Some believed that allowing parents to “opt out” would drain funds from the traditional school system.  Others worried that once the door to school choice was opened, it could never be closed.  Others truly believed that the current educational system was doing a great job and that there was no reason to change.

What has happened in the twelve years since? New Mexico has experienced a slow, but steady increase in the number of charter school options provided to parents.  (Although this growth will be under attack again this year as legislation is expected that will place a moratorium on any new programs, including new charter schools during the upcoming session.)  On a percentage basis, more charter schools make AYP in New Mexico than traditional schools.  Charter schools have higher graduation rates than their traditional school colleagues.  Charters continue to serve specific geographic, pedagogical, or at-risk student populations. And, according to the New Mexico Coalition of Charter Schools, more than 7,000 students statewide sit on waiting lists – waiting for the day when their “number or name” finally gets pulled. At the Southwest Learning Center, we currently maintain a waiting list in excess of 3600 students!

Despite the success of charters, the traditional public school establishment and their legislative protectors continue to wage a war against school choice, charter schools, and the parents who choose them.  The bureaucracy continues to protect the worst of the worst.  For example, the teachers’ unions have provided more protections than any other organized labor force.  Figures cited in Waiting for Superman, show that in Illinois, 1 in 57 doctors lose their license annually and 1 in 97 attorney’s lose the right to practice; yet, only 1 in 2500 teachers have ever lost their teaching credentials! The result is our traditional schools continue to slip.  In 1970, the United States produced 30 percent of the world’s college graduates.  Today the United States produces less than 15%.

So, who is responsible for this?  Legislators are quick to call for more accountability and openness. Yet, one not live in New Mexico long before you recognize that what one says, and what one actually does, are two completely different things!  We are going to start holding people accountable and we need your help!  Twelve years later charter schools should not be fighting for their very existence every year.  Charter schools should be focused on teaching and learning – not on remaining a viable alternative to the traditional school system.  If a charter school is not performing, free market forces will close that school down – and it should be closed down.  After all, our agreement is that kids will learn.

Therefore, we are trying to recruit an independent group of parents and community members to evaluate legislation introduced in Santa Fe, follow the votes of Senators and Representatives in committees and on the floor, and issue a graded report card for every legislator based on their record of supporting alternative educational options for parents.  These report cards will then be made public -prior to elections – so the general public can truly choose representatives that represent their wishes.

If this sounds like something that may be of interest to you, please call LJ Moore at 296-7677 and ask to be included.  Together, we can make a difference and bring transparency and accountability to our elected officials!

Do Local School Board Elections Matter to State-chartered Charter Schools?

Do local school board elections matter to state-chartered charter schools?  In short, the answer is a resounding "yes"!  This is especially true in Albuquerque. 

The Albuquerque Public School's (APS) budget is almost 30% of the entire state budget.  The people elected to spend this money yield a lot of influence on policy makers in Santa Fe.  Their goals, likes and dislikes, as well as their recommendations for cost savings are taken seriously.  School board members and the Superintendent have the ability to command media attention on issues whenever they choose.  This in turn influences public perception and beliefs - regardless of the accuracy of the information disseminated. 

The "tone at the top" is especially important when it comes to equitable access to resources.  A school board member that believes charter school students and their parents are citizens of this community and should benefit from the taxes they pay is much easier to work with and reason with than a school board member who beleives that the district is the annointed provider of education for the city.  One only needs to look at the constant battles for charter schools to receive SB9 and HB33 funds on a per student basis as proof. 

The battles continue in other areas that impact charter and private school students and their families.  For example, APS has lobbied to roll back the requirement that HB33 and SB9 funds be shared with charter schools.  APS has recommended that instructional materials funds not be provided to private schools in an effort to save the state additional money.  This has morphed into a recommendation that textbooks only be switched out every 8 years instead of the current 6 year replacement schedule - thus impacting all students in a very negative way. 

As parents and citizens we must begin to get involved at the most basic level of government - school board elections.  We must insist that school board elections be moved to November and placed on the ballot with other major elections such as Presidential and Gubernatorial elections.  We must insist that polling places be placed in neutral locations - not in the central office of the district.  We must insist that candidates disclose how much money they spent, who contributed to their campaigns, and who those people work for.  Currently, school board elections in New Mexico are the only elections without any campaign reporting requirements.

Albuquerque is currently in the midst of a school board election.  Early voting and absentee voting has begun.  The official election date is February 1, 2011.  If you live in the south valley, on the west side, or in the UNM (Carlisle/I40) area, please take time to research your choices for school board.  And then, exercise your right to vote!

It is time charter schools stop looking over their shoulders for where the next threat is coming from.  It is time for charter schools to be a place where teaching and learning occur - not a place where parents, teachers, and administrators are always wrapped up in politics.  The easiest way to make this happen is to become informed and vote in the most local of all elections - the school board.

SLC Selected to Host Major Legislative Event

As a result of parent outrage at the possible closure of New Mexico's top three performing schools, the Southwest Learning Center has been selected to host a Legislative Community Event sponsored by Representatives Conrad James, Jim Smith, and House Minority Leader Tom Taylor from Farmington.  The event is being held to hear parent and community input into the elimination of the small school size adjustment and the possible closure of charter schools and the consolidation of  36 of New Mexico's rural school districts.

The event will be held on Thursday, January 13, 2011 at the Southwest Learning Center (10301 Candelaria Rd NE: NW corner of Morris and Candelaria) from 6:00pm - 7:00pm.  The event is open to all parents and students attending the Southwest Learning Center, concerned community members, and charter school supporters.

The LFC and LESC have recommended that schools sharing facilities not be allowed to receive the small school adjustment as a way of balancing the state's budget.  "The net result will be the closure of many New Mexico charter schools (including the Southwest Primary, Southwest Intermediate, and Southwest Secondary Learning Center in Albuquerque) and the consolidation of many small New Mexico school districts" said Scott Glasrud, Head Administrator at the Southwest Learning Centers.

"Gaming the System" or an "Economy of Scale"?

The LESC and the LFC have recently coined a new term, "gaming the system".  They are using the term to describe schools and school districts that place multiple schools in one building in an effort to cut down on facility costs, infrastructure costs, personnel costs, etc.  If the legislature has its' way, and the new Governor agrees, 27 school districts and multiple charter schools throughout New Mexico will absorb 12 million dollars in budget cuts - or be forced to close down.

The three schools that comprise the Southwest Learning Center in Albuquerque, (Southwest Primary, Southwest Intermediate, and Southwest Secondary Learnign Center) have historically been among the highest academically performing schools in the state.  If the legisation passes, the schools will be forced to close.  Additionally, districts from Alamogordo and Animas to Tatum and Vaughn will be forced to cut services, teachers, or both to balance budgets. 

What is the legislature thinking?  By housing multiple schools in one building schools only have to pay for one facility, one gymnasium, one computer lab.  They achieve an "economy of scale" that should be emulated - not torn apart. 

A look at the most successful school models in New Mexico shows that the successful schools follow this model.  This includes the Albuquerque Academy, Bosque Prep, the New Mexico Military Institute, and many, many others. 

Additionally, housing multiple schools together also improves the quality of education and student learning!  No longer do middle school teachers pass students on to high school teachers and never see the kids or receiving teacher again.  Instead, they pass those teachers daily in the hall, they interact with the students daily in the cafeteria.  A level of accountability - so often lacking in large, traditional school systems exists, and everybody is the better for it.

Finally, safety is enhanced for students.  When multiple schools are consolidated in one place, more adults are present to look after students.  This level of supervision is unattainable when schools are spread out in multiple buildings and campuses.

We must change legislative minds - and terminology.  "Gaming the system" is a misnomer.  When you hear this term thrown around as gospel - correct it.  Rephrase as "Economy of scale".  New Mexico taxpayers and New Mexico's most vulnerable school children (those in charter schools and small, rural communities)need your help!

Resolutions

As we enter into the new year it is always an exciting time.  It is a time to reflect on the past and it offers an opportunity to look ahead.  What can we do differently?  What would we like to achieve this year?  What goals have I set for myself personally and professionally?

We want to invite everyone to share your New Year's Resolutions with us on this blog.  Also, share with us what you would like for the Southwest Learning Center to strive for in 2011?  It promises to be a challenging year, but it is also a year of hope.  Share withus your hopes, your dreams, and your wishes.

As we spoke with the school staff during the recent in-service, it became apparent that the school's staff holds many similar goals (resolutions).  They resolved to:

1. Continue making AYP in all three schools;
2. Improve the graduation rate for the high school;
3. Create more opportunities for meaningful parental involvement within the school and on important issues;
4. Commit to a focus on education.

Again, we are excited about the opportunities the new year offers.  Please share your resolutions, aspirations, and goals, with us via the comment section below.

Happy New Year!

To Tweet or Not to Tweet

Twitter is quickly becoming a communications dream.  Much like texting, Twitter allows for real time communication.  Unlike texting, Twitter only goes to those who wish to receive your communication or "follow" your posts.  This allows Twitter to be used to communicate important messages in real time to an audience of "like-minded" individuals.

In response to the Legislative Finance Committee and the Legislative Education Study Council's recommendation to abolish the small school size funding for schools that are housed in the same building, the Southwest Learning Center is asking all parents, students, staff members, and charter school friends to "follow" SLC_NM updates on Twitter. You may either create an account or just follow the school's "tweets".  This will allow the school to communicate with all stakeholders during the legislative session whenever legislation affecting the school is proposed (negative or positive).  This will allow for an immediate response to legislators from parents and families to either support or oppose specific legislation.

Following the school and/or creating a Twitter account is easy.  You may follow or create an account on your cell phone or via your computer.  Just follow the steps below:

On your cell phone:

1. Text "follow@SLC_NM" to 40404
2. Follow the directions that are texted back to you on your phone.

• You will now receive updates of the school's "tweets" directly on your cell phone
• You are not signed up for a Twitter account, you are simply receiving updates!

On your computer:

1. Go to http://twitter.com/SLC_NM

• From here you will be permitted to view the school's  "tweets".  However, you will not receive the updates automatically.  Instead, you will need to check back to the website regularly.

2.  Or, from this website you may click on "sign up" to join Twitter and "follow" SLC_NM updates. 
3.  Complete the form.

• You are now an automatic "follower" of SLC_NM updates.  You will receive all updates automatically. 

Remember, automatic updates allow you to be notified whenever a new "Tweet" is initiated.  You will only receive updates (Tweets) from those people you are "following".  You are in complete control.  Encourage your parents, grandparents, friends, neighbors, relatives, dogs, cats, etc. to sign up to "follow" SLC_NM on Twitter. 

Most importantly, please respond immediately when asked to do so.  The very existence of our schools may depend on timely responses!

Check this blog often.  Once students read our instructions, I am sure they will have many suggestions for making your Tweeting expereince a good one.  Congratulations parents, we have all now joined the newest communication revolution!

Welcome

Welcome to the offical blog of the Southwest Learning Center.  Over the next several weeks, information related to the schools, current events, and the legislative session will be presented and discussed using this forum.  The purpose is to:

1.  Ensure all stakeholders have accurate, up-to-the-minute information regarding proposed legislation;
2.  To create a common understanding and a common message for affecting educational policy in NM;
3.  To voice ideas and opinions for improving the schools.

Please be considerate of other's opinions.  Feel free to agree, disagree, or offer suggestions.  However, we ask that you do so in a manner consistent with acceptable behavioral standards for a school.  If you wouldn't say or do it in school, please don't write it here!