Reports of school budget ‘crisis’ don’t stand scrutiny
For the past few years, the Massachusetts public school system has ranked No. 1 in the country with respect to standardized testing performance. Kudos should be given to an education reform movement that started 15 years ago and a number of dedicated public education officials.
Original post by telegram.com- Opinion
Holden voters face choices in May 14 election
A good town moderator knows how to steer an audience to vote. A good town moderator knows when it’s time to shift from debate and bring an agenda item to a vote. A good moderator knows how to keep a meeting moving.
Original post by telegram.com- Opinion
Local colleges already contribute much
I agree with those letter writers who have voiced concern over the possibility of Worcester’s requiring colleges and universities to participate in the Payment in Lieu of Taxes program.
Original post by telegram.com- Opinion
Early interdiction key to crime prevention
The talk on Beacon Hill is about how to solve the crime problems. The rhetoric goes back and forth about mandatory sentencing, programs for rehabilitating criminals and victims’ rights.
Original post by telegram.com- Opinion
Beaver trap ban wreaked havoc in state
This is concerning a letter from Charlton, “Public must treat wildlife humanely” (Telegram & Gazette, April 16).
Original post by telegram.com- Opinion
Clark should have canceled spree day
I am embarrassed to be a Clark University alumnus. I received an e-mail on April 17 in bold, multicolored letters: “We thought you would like to know today is spree day. We hope you take a moment to reflect on your spree day memories and all the good times you had at Clark. Enjoy the day.”
Original post by telegram.com- Opinion
Why does it take tragedy to bring out our best?
Despite the tragedy inherent in any human death, I think what makes the Virginia Tech tragedy so disturbing is the fact that the victims were students. Being a student is about growth. In Blacksburg, the growth of 32 people was erased in one terrible moment. Thirty-two lifetimes of hard work and effort all were wiped out by the mindless decision of a single person.
Original post by telegram.com- Opinion
Close the gap
Even as average test scores rose impressively in Massachusetts after the launch of the state’s 14-year education reform effort, it has become clear that many children - notably minority group members in low-income families - were being left behind. Addressing that imbalance issue should be a top priority on Beacon Hill and across the state this year.
Original post by telegram.com- Opinion