The book Mission Possible How The Secrets Of The Success Academies Can Work In Any School is full of information regarding the state of our current education system and how one group of educators set out to make a difference. According to the authors, Eva Moskowitz and Arin Lavinia, lack of educational advancement is not about money or class size. They contend that public school is too easy and that the current education system should set higher goals for students while focusing on teachers.
The two authors have experience in education. One is the founder and CEO of the Success Academy Charter Schools and the other designed and developed THINK Literacy. The authors discuss how the success academy charter school that opened in Harlem has surpassed expectations in the area of academic performance. This school is considered one of the top schools in New York. The students are chosen at random and the population is very diverse. Not only do these students excel academically, they actually enjoy attending class. The authors believe this school has been a success because, at its inception, the main focus has been on equipping teachers.
They contend that our country treats the teaching profession differently from other vocations because many don’t recognize the true value of a teacher. When teachers are properly equipped, they become powerful academic forces who can effectively lead students and challenge them to succeed. The two authors believe that teachers have to be the main focus because they are the ones who can motivate students on a daily basis.
In the ideal school setting, like those in the success academies, teachers are equipped with training and resources to do their jobs to ensure they maintain high levels of morale. The principals serve as instructional leaders who focus on teachers and coach them. Parents are brought into the process to ensure student success. School is a place of innovation where the students are continually challenged with a fast-paced academic curriculum.
While I am not a teacher, I am a mother. I picked up several ideas in this book on how I can be more effective in teaching my toddler. For example, the book discusses how the success academies teach students how to read. I found this information very useful and interesting. I also learned how important it is for parents to partner with schools to ensure their children are receiving the best education possible.
If you are interested in getting a copy of this book, I am giving one away. To apply, fill out the rafflecopter giveaway form below.
I was compensated for this post, but the writing and opinions are my own.
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