Points of Agreement between PPS and PPQE
In discussions various parents have had with various folks associated with Portage Public Schools in meetings and one-on-one conversations, it is apparent there are many things we agree on. Let's list these, and since we agree on far more than we disagree on, maybe we can move forward based on what we're already in agreement on.
1) Portage schools overall are very good and have a good reputation for educating the children well.
2) All students should have the opportunity to learn at least the minimum Michigan standards in science (including biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science).
3) Some students have graduated without meeting the minimum Michigan standards; therefore some change in the curriculum is needed in science.
4) Some Michigan or AAAS standards are missing from our current science offerings and need to be added.
5) Too many course offerings can make communication and choice complicated; therefore course offerings should be clear and concise as to their objective.
6) It is important, though difficult, to provide a science curriculum that meets the needs of all students.
7) Most Portage students go on to higher learning, roughly 90%.
9) Students are more competitive in the college admissions process if they have taken the most difficult course offerings available at their high school (and have done well).
10) It is better for student learning if students are comparably prepared for their class.
11) Portage (like Midland) is a heavily science oriented community and thus likely to produce many students who are interested in a career in a science related field.
12) Students who want to pursue a career in a science related field need a strong high school science education, but also need a well rounded education including languages, history, math and the arts.
13) Semester courses are one good way for at least some students (notably those who only take two years of core science) to meet the core requirements by April of their 11th grade year (when the MEAP is taken).
15) All students should take at least a semester of chemistry, biology, and physics by April of their 11th grade year (when the MEAP is taken).
There were other points for which there is not agreement, although discussion is ongoing. Hopefully a resolution to the science curriculum controversy will come out of further thoughtful debate on these points (listed below) and related issues.
8) The Michigan Science Standards are not comprehensive enough in biology, chemistry or physics, to adequately prepare students for success in college science.
14) Greater depth than can be provided in one semester is needed by some students (notably those who take three or four years of core science and especially those interested in a career in science or a science-related field) while maintaining a good balance between the disciplines. Full-year courses are one good way to provide this breadth and depth.
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