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Our Old Guestbook Entries
(2/01 through 6/01)

Thank you for viewing our guest book. Entries are organized in reverse chronological order.


Date: Fri Jun 29 14:47:37 2001
Name: Lillie Clay
E-mail: lillie.clay@arpstl.army.mil
Organization: Webster University
Location: Webster Groves, Mo
How the site
was found:
Class Instructor
Comments: I am looking for a biography or information on the author. I am doing a presentation and must include background information on the author Alfie Kohn. Thank You!



Date: Thu Jun 28 20:02:45 2001
Name: Michael O. Cannon
E-mail: obaiye@yahoo.com
Organization: Best Practice H.S.
Location: Chicago, Ill.
How the site
was found:
Walloon Institute
Comments: I'm looking for specific information on the value or detriment of having honors classes offered in high school. Thank you.



Date: Thu Jun 28 09:53:44 2001
Name: Laura Bauman
E-mail: wcc@stans.com
Organization:
Location:
How the site
was found:
Your book, "Punished by Rewards"
Comments: My homeschooled family is a "before" and "after" commercial for your ideas. Even you might be surprised at how happy, well-adjusted and curious kids who don't get labeled or graded can be.........You commented that the major faiths operate on a "Do this and you'll get that" mentality, but many devout Christians consider that kind of faith immature and superstitious. Regarding testing, I wonder if you're familiar with 2 Corinthians 10:12: "We do not dare to classify ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise." So you can add the Apostle Paul among those who agree with you on that.



Date: Thu Jun 28 08:45:43 2001
Name: robert heffernan
E-mail: rheffer992@aol.com
Organization: Shorewood Special Education Group Inc
Location: Shorewwwod, WI
How the site
was found:
Comments:



Date: Thu Jun 28 08:43:24 2001
Name: robert heffernan
E-mail:
Organization:
Location:
How the site
was found:
Comments:



Date: Mon Jun 25 21:59:51 2001
Name: Dr. Kay Smith
E-mail: nosluffin@aol.com
Organization: Payson High School
Location: Payson, Utah
How the site
was found:
search
Comments: I would like to read again Alfie Kohn's opinion of character education programs that are "Themes by the Month," and their relationship to the Newtonian model of "fixing the machine or kid."



Date: Sat Jun 23 10:42:17 2001
Name: Libby Armentrout
E-mail: armentr@attglobal.net
Organization: Middletown City Schools, Miami Univ
Location: Middletown, Ohio
How the site
was found:
given to us at Walloon
Comments: Thank you for making crystal clear myintuitive, fuzzy thinking on standardized tests. I'll spread the word--not as well, but maybe just as persistently. Wallooners benefited--and there were 400 of us.



Date: Fri Jun 22 20:50:19 2001
Name: Francesca Blueher
E-mail: bluewaft@aol.com
Organization: Albuquerque Public School teacher
Location:
How the site
was found:
back of the Children Deserve book
Comments: I am a fairly new teacher....I am totally engrossed in the above mentioned book...wonderful true points about the public school education. Has Mr. Kohn written anything since the passing of Bush's education bill? Would love to know of his reaction.



Date: Thu Jun 21 21:42:20 2001
Name: JEFF HERR
E-mail: cherr@esc11.net
Organization:
Location:
How the site
was found:
Comments: UNDERMINE PASSIVE SCHOOL OPPRESSION;BOYCOTT THE TAAS! SETTLE ONLY FOR THE EDUCATION OF SOCIAL CHANGE!



Date: Wed Jun 20 09:34:54 2001
Name: Anne Nelson
E-mail: nelson@unite.com.au
Organization: Spensley Street PS
Location: Clifton Hill, Victoria, Aust
How the site
was found:
friend
Comments:



Date: Mon Jun 18 19:43:02 2001
Name: sue dutton
E-mail: SUE_DUTTON@HOTMAIL.COM
Organization: MCADORY ELEM.
Location: ALABAMA
How the site
was found:
OTHER TEACHERS
Comments: I hope that this web site will help me find information on standards and teacher leadership.



Date: Sun Jun 17 23:16:21 2001
Name: Meryl Danziger
E-mail: mdanzig@javanet.com
Organization: The Little Red School House
Location: NYC
How the site
was found:
looked for it on Internet
Comments: I would like to meet Mr. Kohn. I think we'd have a lot to talk about.



Date: Sat Jun 16 19:37:42 2001
Name: Patrick D. Page
E-mail: ppage@g2a.net
Organization: Just Retired after 36 years in the classroom
Location: Central Wisconsin
How the site
was found:
Entered Alfie Kohn's name
Comments: I feel Alfie's message is one that must be heard by all educators both young and old.Please continue to do your part to aid in doing that.



Date: Sat Jun 16 10:32:19 2001
Name: Mary Strezewski
E-mail: strezew@ix.netcom.com
Organization: Midwest Montessori Teacher Training Center
Location: Evanston, IL
How the site
was found:
Given out at your lecture in April, 2001
Comments: Thank you for your wonderful message at the AMS conference. You give voice to many of my own theories regarding how some of us deceive ourselves about the methods we use. When they fail, we are too short sighted to understand why. I always tell my adult students that if what they doing isn't working, it certainly isn't the fault of the children...they haven't read the books. We need to continue to search for common sense answers. You have certainly aided in that search.



Date: Fri Jun 15 00:18:50 2001
Name: Jaqui O'Shaughnessy
E-mail:
Organization:
Location:
How the site
was found:
Comments:



Date: Thu Jun 14 15:32:07 2001
Name: Karen faiai
E-mail: kfaiai@aol.com
Organization: Mother
Location: North Carolina
How the site
was found:
cnn talkback live
Comments: I want to know more about these tests.



Date: Wed Jun 13 10:25:01 2001
Name: Jacob R. Roe
E-mail: jroe39@hotmail.com
Organization: future teacher
Location: Whitney Point, NY
How the site
was found:
Timothy Slekar showed it to me.
Comments: I just finished reading "The School our Children Deserve" and it has forced me to re-evaluate schooling, and testing. I whole-heartedly agree with the entire book. I think every educator or person who wants to dictate and mandate standards to teachers should read some of your books. You will be hearing from me. I plan on dedicating the rest of my life as a teacher to ending standardized tests, and raising standards.



Date: Tue Jun 12 17:18:56 2001
Name: Chuck Ohm
E-mail: cohm@triton.k12.mn.us
Organization: Triton Public Schools
Location: Dodge Center, MN
How the site
was found:
Ed. Specialist Program through Winona State
Comments: I have a question that I could use some help on. It is, " Discuss the concept of 'covenant of shared values' and its importance to curriculum development. Discuss 'democracy' as a basis for such a covenant" I have picked this topic to research on and write my final paper for our curriculum development class and could use some valuable information or opinions to get started. Thanks, Chuck



Date: Sun Jun 10 10:09:13 2001
Name: Michael Swickard
E-mail: michael@swickard.com
Organization: The Michael Swickard Talk Radio Show
Location: Las Cruces, New Mexico
How the site
was found:
Referenced in Punished By Rewards
Comments: It is difficult to hold contradictory thoughts to "common sense" whatever that means to each of us. I started investigating the concept of rewards for learning with the thought, "What an idiot Alfie Kohn is to write this book." Very quickly I realized, "What an idiot I have been." No gold stars for me, just the truth I found in this book. Thanks.



Date: Wed Jun 6 21:26:21 2001
Name: Jessica
E-mail:
Organization:
Location:
How the site
was found:
Comments:



Date: Wed Jun 6 10:50:20 2001
Name: Bill Sacco
E-mail: sacco@sharpthinkers.com
Organization: SharpThinkers, Inc.
Location: Bel Air MD.
How the site
was found:
Read your "Schools" book and searched for you on the net
Comments: Share your views. Can I join your parade?



Date: Tue Jun 5 22:42:14 2001
Name: John S. Aird
E-mail: jsaird@erols.com
Organization: Unaffiliated retiree.
Location: Silver Spring, MD
How the site
was found:
Listing in an article in the Washington Post.
Comments: My wife and I are in our tenth yerar of volunteering two days a week as classroom teacher aides in an elementary school with a high minority enrollment. We are concerned about student motivation, teaching methods, and progress measurement. But educational methods seem to change in cycles, as though they were based on whims, fashions, or unfounded ideologies, not on empirical research and substantial evidence. Some of Mr. Kohn's ideas seem to echo convictions that were popular in U. S. education in the late 1960s, some of which appeared to have a destructive effect on teaching and learning in the public schools at that time. Some of his statements reflect great certainty that he is rioght, and his opponents are wrong. On what is this sense of certainty based? I have serious doubts as to whether his philosophy is appropriate to the needs and problems of the students with whom I have been working over the past ten years.



Date: Mon Jun 4 18:53:08 2001
Name: Anita Wolpman
E-mail: anita_wolpman@sccoe.org
Organization: Teacher
Location: San Jose, California
How the site
was found:
Attended Urban conference/Oakland
Comments: I am so grateful to have heard your views, Alfie Kohn!! I have, for many years shared your concerns regarding Behavioristic Psychology and the "competitive "model used in our educational system, and in our society at large. Thank you for presenting your thoughts with passion and clarity. Anita Wolpman



Date: Mon Jun 4 10:45:18 2001
Name: Casey
E-mail: vunguyen728b@aol.com
Organization:
Location:
How the site
was found:
from the book
Comments: I'm not finished with The Schools Our Children Deserve, but I'm thankful to have a book that says so much of what I experienced as a teacher. I worked in a low income, Hispanic school in Texas teaching 4th grade. My first year I could teach and be creative. I loved it. The kids learned. My second year more kids were required to take the state tests, so we did testing drills from September to April. We were told by principals to only focus on students who could learn and skip science and social studies. They were not on the test. I didn't like it. The kids didn't like it. I'm sorry all these good kids are missing an education just because some people think testing is a judge of quality. I'm not teaching now and wonder if I'll ever go back.



Date: Sun Jun 3 16:30:46 2001
Name: Bryll Anthony SCHULTZ
E-mail: bschultz@sprynet.com
Organization: Teacher in the Los Angeles Unified School District
Location: Noth Hollywood, California
How the site
was found:
Read a book picked up in a book store
Comments: As one who has been chastised for not being a "Team Player", it is refreshing to find one who is playing on the same team as I!



Date: Sat Jun 2 17:10:57 2001
Name: Dorothy Wolden
E-mail: dwolden@aol.com
Organization:
Location:
How the site
was found:
search
Comments: Thank goodness for Alfie Kohn and his voice of compassion and reason! I feel so much saner after reading his work. I keep giving the books to my daughter's elementary school teachers and administrators but they don't "get it." Next year we begin homeschooling.



Date: Sat Jun 2 14:36:40 2001
Name: jim black
E-mail: jim@grasslands.ab.ca
Organization: grasslands public schools
Location: brooks alberta canada
How the site
was found:
attended alfie's presentation in calgary ab
Comments: enjoyed the presentation!have been thinking about those tests in that way for some time.I stopped item writing and marking 4 years ago.thanks for the website.



Date: Fri Jun 1 15:25:06 2001
Name: Craig Bishop
E-mail: bishop.c@home.com
Organization: Calgary Seperate School District
Location: Calgary, AB
How the site
was found:
Attended Kohn's Lecture
Comments: Last night I saw Kohn speak in Calgary against standardized tests. I think the commerce side of life is making social systems like education fall into a model of the "Bottom Line" ideal. I don't think business has any place in school because competition is at the root of business success. Competition is inevitably failure. Students should experience successes, not failures! Thanks for a wonderful, insightful and inspirational talk around this topic.



Date: Fri Jun 1 09:21:59 2001
Name: Kevin Mader
E-mail: kevin.mader@thuleus.com
Organization: THULE
Location: Seymour, CT
How the site
was found:
Browsed
Comments: Mr. Kohn's books are insightful! He has opened my eyes.



Date: Thu May 31 13:29:39 2001
Name: David J schneider II
E-mail: Schndj13@uwgb.edu
Organization: student
Location: Green Bay,WI
How the site
was found:
carefully
Comments: I am currently a student at the University of Wisconsin at Green Bay. I am very interested in teaching but am finding that it is very difficult for me to do so because I feel our educational enterprise here in the US is a joke. I have read all of Kohn's books and agree with everything he has published. When I read the books, it is as if Kohn was reading my mind. I have been studying Roussaueu, John Goodlad, Montessouri, and William Glasser as well. I am about to enter into the teacher cirtification program at the university I currently attend, but I am reluctant to do so because I feel they will fail to teach me anything usefull. I don't want to be trained by the state of Wisconsin to teach "their" way because as I've said I believe, as Kohn believes, we can do better! So I have found myself stuck between a rock and a hard place. Are their any other options? I want to learn more about constuctivist or progressive education so that I too can help to promote my educational theories; theories that are revolutionary and demand an overthrowing of the current system. I believe that if educators continue to fail to recognize the importance of students' atittudes on learning, then children will continue to destroy the school's stength by acting out against it; just look at the increase of bomb threats and school shootings that have permiated every inner city, suburban, and rural school across the country. I fear that we have not even begun to see the end, and surely if schools do not cange, a disater beyond our imagination will occure. Something must be done now before it's too late!! We need to reasses every single belief that governs our schools. I have enouph faith in the American public that there are enouph creative people to come up with an endless list of ressolutions to make our schools more need satisfying; for instance, look at what Disney is doing. If our schoolchildren are to experience any reprieve then a total restucturing of the current curricular and pedigogical lines must occure. In the words of Kohn, "The bad news is that we have paid the price for so long, the good news is that we can do better. We can get kids hooked on learning--if that is what we really intend to do." Our schools could be so much more if children were allowed to direct their own learning, to learn that wich appeals to each individual, and above all, helping to develope a love of truths. But, unforetunetly when I think of all the external causes that spoil the wisest of plans I begin to wonder if betterment is even possible.



Date: Thu May 31 06:27:43 2001
Name: Lynne Oreck-Wener
E-mail: tehwener@home.com
Organization: Alternative Schools Advisory Committee
Location: Ottawa, Ontario-Canada
How the site
was found:
Comments: I have viewed your videos and read your books- your passion, commitment and messages are enlightening. Thank you Please put me on your mailing list



Date: Wed May 30 21:51:33 2001
Name: Valerie Moon
E-mail: starrmoon@hotmail.com
Organization: member National Home Education Network
Location: Missouri
How the site
was found:
typed 'Alfie Kohn' into mamma.com search engine
Comments: I read _Punished by Rewards_ years ago while homeschooling my kids and have since recommended it to new homeschoolers and people inquiring into homeschooling. I was pleased to find the web site. Now I can send out the url along with my Christmas cards. My idea of 'Alfie for President' is simplistic but heartfelt. Would that the change in the American education system were that easy.



Date: Wed May 30 21:23:32 2001
Name: Blake Bordisso
E-mail: BigBbord@hotmail.com
Organization: highschool student
Location: kelseyville, CA
How the site
was found:
doing a reserch paper
Comments: I thank you for the enlightment on this topic. Your information was very helpful in writing my reserch paper. I'm sure my teacher will give me a very high score. I will never think about a standardized test the same again.



Date: Tue May 29 17:04:27 2001
Name: Stephanie M. Turner
E-mail: smtmesh245@aol.com
Organization: student
Location: Newark, DE
How the site
was found:
it was given in a book
Comments: Hi I have read a couple articals in school and after that I bought two of your books. I'm an early education major and was woundering if there is a book out there that tells about non tradional schools where they are ect. a guide so to speak. I want to teach at a school like this and when I have kids I want them to have tha oppertunity to be excited about learning.



Date: Fri May 25 21:57:39 2001
Name: Rachel Madu
E-mail: rachelmadu@hotmail.com
Organization: Family Education and Support Worker
Location: Vancouver, BC
How the site
was found:
Punished By Rewards
Comments: I just started reading Punished by Rewards, am thoroughly enjoying it and am now thirsty for anything written by Alfie Kohn.



Date: Thu May 24 14:24:04 2001
Name: Michele Sakaguchi
E-mail: houserm@cc.wwu.edu
Organization: Western WA University Pre-Service Teacher
Location: Bellingham, WA
How the site
was found:
Read "Beyond Discipline"
Comments: Please put me on your mailing list!



Date: Thu May 24 11:00:09 2001
Name: Bill Bright
E-mail: brightideas98@hotmail.com
Organization: School Board Member
Location: Galup, NM
How the site
was found:
Read "The Scjhools Our Children Deserve"
Comments: Put me on your mailing list.



Date: Wed May 23 14:21:16 2001
Name: Sharon Ingold
E-mail: sri@pfeiffer.edu
Organization: education major- college senior
Location: Oakboro, North Carolina
How the site
was found:
while researching a college paper
Comments: Your articles give me hope for positive changes to our education system. As an adult who is changing careers and returning to college, I know that the "traditional" teaching methods that were used when I was in school didn't work!! I plan to teach hands-on, minds-on lessons that encourage my students to learn through inquiry and action! I know teachers who are using the "new" methods we are now learning in college that are frustrated due to being at odds with other teachers and administrators because they don't teach by giving worksheets and tons of tests!! I needed to hear that there are others who believe that standardized tests are ineffective and that we need to teach children how to learn and how to understand concepts rather than trying to make them regurgitate meaningless facts!! Keep up the great work and keep encouraging teachers and future teachers like myself.



Date: Tue May 22 20:08:55 2001
Name: Art Pelletier
E-mail: ajpell@email.com
Organization: NH House of Representatives
Location: (H)Dover, NH (W) Concord, NH
How the site
was found:
FairTest web site
Comments: Alfie, I was dismayed to learn (through a Boston Globe columnist) of your "disinvitation" to a recent conference in Mass. due to Dept. of Ed. interference. You know you're striking a nerve when such tactics begin to appear. Give 'em hell, Harry -- er, Alfie!!



Date: Tue May 22 18:00:06 2001
Name: Candy Burnett
E-mail: ckburnett@yahoo.com
Organization: Middletown Pre-K
Location: Middletown,NY
How the site
was found:
NYSAEYC Conference pamphlet
Comments: I was unable to attend the conference. I am very interested in your ideas of reward/punishment. Which of your books would be most helpful. I teach Pre-K (4-5 year olds.) Thank you.



Date: Tue May 22 17:54:46 2001
Name: Candy Burnett
E-mail:
Organization:
Location:
How the site
was found:
Comments:



Date: Mon May 21 23:10:00 2001
Name: Andy Zaugg
E-mail: zauggandy@hotmail.com
Organization:
Location:
How the site
was found:
from What to Look for in a Classroom
Comments: I am about to become a secondary schol teacher, and am appalled at the undemocractic, authoritarian atmosphere in the schools in my area. At no time have my studies included anything regarding the fact that children need to be participants in the decision-making regarding their education. Nor have my education classes been other than traditional fare. Where can I see humane education? I have been inspered by A.K.'s writings, and would like to create at least a small haven of dignity and respect in my own classroom, but I don't think it's allowed.



Date: Mon May 21 14:20:43 2001
Name: Alien
E-mail:
Organization:
Location:
How the site
was found:
Comments: keep up the good work



Date: Sun May 20 16:22:27 2001
Name: Krusty Van der Squeal
E-mail:
Organization:
Location:
How the site
was found:
Comments: Bravo! Keep up the good work!



Date: Sun May 20 12:55:14 2001
Name: Kevin McCormack
E-mail: kevmac71@aol.com
Organization: Xaverian HS
Location: Bklyn NY
How the site
was found:
I was looking for it.
Comments: I was either dean & AP of discipline in my building for about 5 years. I was effective in the short run but feared I was losing my soul. I could make the toughest teenage boy "break" in a matter of no time. But when I did it I knew something was terribly wrong. My educational role models had become TV cops! I have been out of "discipline" for 2 yeas now and have been working in my school to "subvert the pervasive paridigm" of discipline. Last week I discovered "Beyond Discipline" and have not been able to put it down!!! Your book has offered me a way to rethink and challenge age old assumptions that defy validity; especially in a school and a system dedicated to the life & teachings of Jesus. Thank You



Date: Sun May 20 09:37:37 2001
Name: wanwisa wongchalard
E-mail: wwisa@another.com
Organization:
Location: Thailand
How the site
was found:
websearch
Comments: Thanks you for your ideas.



Date: Sun May 20 07:51:23 2001
Name: Irene Bass
E-mail: bean5181@aol.com
Organization: none
Location: Puerto Rico
How the site
was found:
Excite
Comments:



Date: Sun May 20 01:49:57 2001
Name: Kathy Whitney
E-mail: joehul@bellsouth.net
Organization:
Location:
How the site
was found:
from disney site
Comments: Love your books. I'm a pre-service teacher ready to begin this fall. Can I interview successfully spouting your wonderful ideas? Can I implement your ideas in a classroom?



Date: Sat May 19 23:08:09 2001
Name: Marilyn Hoffman
E-mail: Elitistmar@aol.com
Organization: Great Neck Public School Teacher, pre-kindergarten
Location: great Neck, NY
How the site
was found:
Ask Jeeves
Comments: A friend of mine who is in early childhood suggested that I read the text of a speech that Alphie Kohn made regarding standards. The speech was given in Syracuse, NY, quite recently. Can I obtain the text of what Mr. Kohn discussed. I am very disheartened by what is happening in the educational system and feel profoundly angry that the standards are so off kilter. Children need to be children and play is there work. The new rage in directed and imposed curriculum clearly goes against all that I believe to be developmentally sound in Early Childhood Education



Date: Fri May 18 15:57:48 2001
Name: Christina
E-mail:
Organization:
Location: BC, Canada
How the site
was found:
Through a psyc health newsletter from my area
Comments: This is a greatly refreshing site. I found it very useful in retrieving information that I was in need of. Congratulations to Alfie for finally speaking out about what so many of us have had on our minds for so long, speaking out for those who are often not listened to, speaking out for our students.



Date: Fri May 18 10:20:35 2001
Name: lynn herschlein
E-mail: lynnhersch
Organization: locust valley central school district
Location: bayville, new york
How the site
was found:
kohn's writing
Comments: i need to get my hands on a ny times op-ed piece by howard gardiner where he cautioned against test prep; equated high test scores through intense prep with "mimicry", asserted that high scores should be result of strong general preparation and good teaching, etc. any chance someone clipped it as i did (but managed to hang on to it)? :)



Date: Fri May 18 00:14:01 2001
Name: David Bly
E-mail: david.bly@nfld.k12.mn.us
Organization: Minnesota Association of Alternative Programs
Location: Minnesota
How the site
was found:
Comments: I am writing to request your views on the following Wellstone proposal that may be added to the K-12 education bill currently being considered on the floor of the U.S. Senate. Proposed Wellstone amendment. Sen. Wellstone is concerned that the federal government is moving ahead too quickly with mandating annual testing in grades 3 through 8 without making the necessary investment in our schools. He may propose an amendment on May 22 to the Senate bill that includes President Bush's annual testing proposal. The Wellstone amendment would say that states would NOT be required to implement the "new Bush tests" unless the federal Title I program is fully funded for the year in which the tests go into effect. Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) authorizes aid to local school districts for the education of disadvantaged children. Title I grants are used to provide supplementary educational and related services to low-achieving children attending schools with relatively high concentrations of pupils from low-income families. Sen. Wellstone believes that if you want to "leave no child behind" annual testing is not enough. It must be accompanied by efforts to ensure that all children have opportunities to learn. Sen. Wellstone values your advice and direction. I would appreciate getting your written comments on the proposed Wellstone amendment by Monday, May 21. We are particularly interested in hearing from classroom teachers and parents. Please direct your views and any stories from the classroom to: Josh Syrjamaki, Policy Liaison U.S. Sen. Paul Wellstone 2550 University Avenue, #100 St. Paul, MN 55114 Phone: 651-645-0383 Fax: 651-645-0704 josh_syrjamaki@wellstone.senate.gov You can find more information about President Bush's education proposal and the corresponding bills in the House and Senate at these two website: President Bush's Proposal U.S. Department of Education http://www.ed.gov/inits/nclb/index.html Comparison of House and Senate Education Bills Congressional Research Service "ESEA Reauthorization Proposals: Comparison of Major Features of S.1, H.1, and Comprehensive Alternative Bills, May 14, 2001" Product Number RL30921 http://www.crs.gov/ Thank you in advance for your assistance. I look forward to hearing from you. All my best. Josh Syrjamaki



Date: Thu May 17 01:55:17 2001
Name: Shelley Wagner
E-mail: trshmi@mindspring.com
Organization:
Location: Chicago
How the site
was found:
educated guess
Comments: Fantastic! I expect to graduate from college next year with a degree in psychology. Are there any graduate programs in Chicago in which there are faculty members studying the detrimental effects of standardized testing? My son is 4 years old. I didn't use punishments or rewards before I read any of Mr. Kohn's books, but they affirmed my own personal philosophy. I have not encountered any difficulties by excluding rewards or punishments. Everyone should read these books, not just parents, everybody!



Date: Wed May 16 22:09:03 2001
Name: William Mark Stierle
E-mail: touchdwn83@aol.com
Organization: Corporate Culture Development
Location: Santa Monica
How the site
was found:
Punished by Rewards book cover
Comments: Punished by Rewards was transformation for me and my applications to understanding the function of behavior.



Date: Wed May 16 11:58:42 2001
Name: amy jones
E-mail: jonesie04@hotmail.com
Organization: Bountiful High School
Location: Bountiful, Utah
How the site
was found:
Read Mr. Kohn's books!!!
Comments: You are my hero!! At last, someone with professional credibility who believes as I do about education, classroom management and parenting. With my principal's permission and support this year, I took away grades and extrinsic motivation from my classes, specifically my AP classes. Some of the students absolutely hyperventilated, at first, and then recognized the possibilities and changed their thinking. Some of them didn't hyperventilate but intellectually dropped out. The rest rejoiced and did very well. It will be interesting to see how they did on their AP test. They gave up their evenings and Saturday (no requirement either for this or actually taking the AP test) to meet with me and and prepare themselves. It was a great year!! Thank you!! Thank you!! Thank you!! Amy Jones



Date: Wed May 16 08:02:49 2001
Name: Jyothsna
E-mail:
Organization:
Location:
How the site
was found:
Browser
Comments: Loved Ur book Compliance to Community - did u know that it made a teacher far away in India (me)sit up and think?



Date: Wed May 16 07:25:39 2001
Name: angelie delos santos
E-mail: angeliedelossantos@yahoo.com.uk
Organization:
Location:
How the site
was found:
Comments: I am currently writing my term paper about the effects of rewards in the teaching and learning process. I was fascinated by the articles of Mr. Alfie Kohn about rewards.His ideas could bring reform in the field of education.



Date: Mon May 14 12:34:54 2001
Name: Kelly Barrett
E-mail: labatblu48@yahoo.com
Organization: Binghamton University Student
Location: Binghamton, ny
How the site
was found:
in The Case Agiainst Standardized Testing
Comments: Changes need to be made in the education of our children! This is a great place to start...Alfie's ideas are essential for reform.



Date: Mon May 14 01:41:50 2001
Name: cathy wilton
E-mail: c.wilton@lycos
Organization: Pine Community School
Location: Brisbane,Australia
How the site
was found:
word of mouth
Comments: TRhankyou! As a teacher in an alternative setting and as a parent, I have so much to learn and voices and opinions like those expressed here, are not nearly loud enough. I really feel I have benefited from your work. Thanks, again



Date: Sun May 13 23:14:35 2001
Name: stephen Lim
E-mail: stephenlimts@yahoo.com
Organization: none
Location: Kuala Lumpur
How the site
was found:
search engine
Comments:



Date: Sun May 13 23:11:53 2001
Name: Curt Hayes, Professor (ret.)
E-mail: chayes@bainbridge.net
Organization: The University of Texas at San Antonio
Location: BCBL, San Antonio, TX 78216
How the site
was found:
Through an article of testing
Comments: Old New England proverb: "You don't raise hogs by weighing them"



Date: Fri May 11 16:38:47 2001
Name: Beth Julian
E-mail: bjulian@neo.rr.com
Organization: Canton Montessori School, parent of 3
Location: Ohio, USA
How the site
was found:
from cassette of lecture at AMS Chicago
Comments: I am thrilled to find such an articulate voice for the "common sense" approach of treating children with respect. I hope to share his message with the Parochial school educators that treat my two older children as if they were Pavlov's dogs! Candy if you're quiet, no recess if you talk when you're not "supposed" to! AARGH!



Date: Fri May 11 16:34:54 2001
Name: Beth Julian
E-mail: bjulian@neo.rr.com
Organization: Canton Montessori School, parent of 3
Location: Ohio, USA
How the site
was found:
from cassette of lecture at AMS Chicago
Comments:



Date: Thu May 10 13:46:38 2001
Name: Sara Dotty
E-mail: sdotty@qwest.net
Organization: Minneapolis Public Schools
Location:
How the site
was found:
by chance
Comments: I am a relatively new teacher (5 years) and would like to broaden my knowledge base. I am asking for suggestions on new/current topics to read about. Any book or article suggestions would be helpful. Thank you.



Date: Thu May 10 13:44:23 2001
Name: Sara Dotty
E-mail: sdotty@qwest.net
Organization: Minneapolis Public Schools
Location:
How the site
was found:
by chance
Comments: I am a relatively new teacher (5 years) and would like to broaden my knowledge base. I am asking for suggestions on new/current topics to read about. Any book or article suggestions would be helpful. Thank you.



Date: Thu May 10 13:41:53 2001
Name: Trudi Richards
E-mail: wingedlion@aol.com
Organization: Winged Lion Project for Relevant Education
Location: SF Bay Area, California
How the site
was found:
articles, books & word of mouth
Comments: THANK YOU for so clearly articulating, demonstrating and documenting what so many of us KNOW but have been less able to express. A TWIST ON "TOUGHER STANDARDS" AND TESTING: Don't you think it's time that WE THE PEOPLE enforced Tougher Standards on our "leaders"? Please join us in GRADING THE STATE on how well "they" are doing: Is our public education system providing a RELEVANT AND MEANINGFUL EDUCATION FOR ALL PEOPLE? Constact us at wingedlion@aol.com for a copy of the THE R.E.A.L. TEST (Relevant Educ. at All Levels) currently being launched in California.



Date: Thu May 10 10:52:24 2001
Name: Jennifer birckmayer
E-mail: jmb25@cornell.edu
Organization: Cornell University
Location: Ithaca NY
How the site
was found:
through netscape
Comments: interested in your ideas as a result of the NYSAEYC conference - great presentation!



Date: Wed May 9 01:55:59 2001
Name: Brian Comnes
E-mail: bcomnes@yahoo.com
Organization:
Location: Marin County, CA USA
How the site
was found:
google search
Comments: 34% of Drake High students in Marin County opted out of the STAR tests last week in protest, District wide it was 24% even the middle school went over 10% opt out...find out more...write me at bcomnes@yahoo.com



Date: Tue May 8 19:27:56 2001
Name: Carol Taylor
E-mail: cjst@ix.netcom.com
Organization: Civic Organizing Foundation/National Citizenship School
Location:
How the site
was found:
Comments:



Date: Tue May 8 11:48:23 2001
Name: Dr. Rebecca Shore
E-mail: DrRebeccaSHore@cs.com
Organization: NurseryMinds
Location: NOrth Carolina
How the site
was found:
Heard Alfie speak last weekend at NYAEYC
Comments: Alfie,I think I forgot to give you my website. I had an 8th grader put it together for me. www.NurseryMinds.com. Sincerely, Rebecca Shore, UNCG



Date: Mon May 7 21:42:15 2001
Name: Jules Ohrin-Greipp
E-mail: wiscman@global101.com
Organization: Palo Verde Unified School District
Location: Blythe, California
How the site
was found:
I was looking for info on Alfie Kohn
Comments: I am a school psychologist in Blythe, California. I will be using Alfie's books in a college course I am teaching. I also heard of Scarsdale's (New York)successful (I think) boycott of the standardized tests. I hope this will spread. I am doing my part to encourage the discontinued use of these tests. Any info on how a boycott can be initiated would be appreciated.



Date: Mon May 7 13:41:08 2001
Name: Kenneth McGrath
E-mail: mcgrathke@wrps.org
Organization: Lincoln High School
Location: Wisconsin Rapids WI
How the site
was found:
Rogue Forum
Comments: enjoy your books-how much real hope is there? Milwaukee Journal- Sentinel just criticized CA dropping SATs for admission. Called SATs only true measurement. The SATs are not culturally biased or Asian kids would do poorly also. Got any data?



Date: Mon May 7 12:35:57 2001
Name: Jennifer Weiss
E-mail: jennifer@daycarecouncil.org
Organization: Day Care & Child Dev't Council of Tompkins Co.
Location: Ithaca, NY
How the site
was found:
NYSAEYC pamphlet
Comments: I saw Alfie speak at the conference. He was fantastic! I'm interested in trying to bring him to Ithaca.



Date: Sun May 6 23:43:08 2001
Name: Leslie Zarnowski
E-mail: BsnChick@aol.com
Organization: Henderson County Public Schools
Location: Hendersonville, North Carolina
How the site
was found:
Dr. Gayle Moller - WCU
Comments:



Date: Sat May 5 17:20:18 2001
Name: Cindy Whitman-Bradley
E-mail: buph@igc.org
Organization: Parent, Tamalpais Union School District
Location: Marin Coutny, California
How the site
was found:
From Kohn's books
Comments: I've been on this site and given messages before, but I wanted to give an update about the student boycott of the STAR ( California required standardized tests for all students grades 2-11) test at the Tamalpais district high schools. This was parent supported and 600 students got parent waivers not to take the test. Three of the five high schools got more than 10% of kids not taking tests which means they are no longer eligible for state funding. This has hit the local papers big time. The students also formed a group called Marin Students for Liberating Education and they have spoken at school board meetings and are looking for ways to create an ongoing organization that will demand more power over their education and their treatment in schools. My son is part of this group and it is wonderful to see how articulate and well informed these students are. They have their facts and they are level headed and do not resort to demonizing as they address their opponents. My son is finishing his junior year of high school and has decided to skip senior year and enroll directly in the local community college because he is sick of being treated so poorly at high school and wants to pursue his interests in biology more seriously. When he took his High School Proficiency Exam last weekend the first test site was over-booked so they had to go to a second test site. That tells you something about what kids think of their high school education in Marin County. Spread the word about our success in the boycott; the kids are thinking of the next steps in stopping the California STAR; hopefully they will also go after the newly created Exit Exams as well. The power of the students is awesome!



Date: Sat May 5 13:10:59 2001
Name: Michelle Slusher
E-mail: buddhacb@aol.com
Organization: NSSD - Woodlake Elementary School
Location: North Sacramento, CA
How the site
was found:
search....standardized testing also my professor & fellow colleagues spoke highly of Alfie Kohn
Comments: Thought provoking, interesting, & motivating! It's unfortunate that my district bases students ability solely on their acheivement test scores. I see students who are permanently scarred from such tests and the pressure put on them is horrendous. I pray we educators can make the difference....



Date: Fri May 4 18:46:05 2001
Name: Julie Gabrielse
E-mail: jgabrielse1@yahoo.com
Organization: The Montessori Academy at Edison Lakes - teacher
Location: Mishawaka, IN
How the site
was found:
AMS Conference
Comments:



Date: Fri May 4 12:55:52 2001
Name: Kate Strefeler
E-mail: kstrefeler@neo.rr.com
Organization:
Location: Ohio
How the site
was found:
was looking for background info on pros and cons of standized testing; thru findarticles com
Comments:



Date: Thu May 3 21:28:05 2001
Name: tieing the knot at the end of the rope
E-mail: nexttimee54@hotmail.com
Organization: family
Location: USA
How the site
was found:
heard of it
Comments: Per my son message below...please use this address to contact me...nexttime54@hotmail.com as the otherone will not reach me. "tieing the knot at the end of the rope" is as in--casting a lifeline out there--tieing a knot at the end of the rope and hanging on for life.... Thanxs.



Date: Thu May 3 21:07:13 2001
Name: tieing the knot at the end of the rope
E-mail: next time
Organization: family
Location: usa
How the site
was found:
heard of it
Comments: Hi, My 9th grade son thinks his is failing everything, in school his grades are all less than 50%. He has a.d.d. and numerous things have been tried within a systemically ill school over these last 2 years. With 15 or so school days left, everyone has more or less call 'things' a wash...only effort s come to my mind is to request a battery of tests to identify his best learning styles. Circumstances in the past have prohibitied me from home-schooling but am thinking about that. However, don't think I can handle homeschooling. Any suggestions for types of test to requests from school to do? Other suggestions?



Date: Thu May 3 15:44:51 2001
Name: Debbie Hessert
E-mail: debhessert@yahoo.com
Organization: National Louis University
Location: Wheaton, Illinois
How the site
was found:
a search on Google.com
Comments: I look forward to reading more of your work. I have heard good things about you!



Date: Thu May 3 11:32:48 2001
Name: Tony Brown
E-mail: tony.f.brown@baesystems.com
Organization: BAE Systems Ltd
Location: Waterlooville, Hants, UK
How the site
was found:
via curious cat
Comments:



Date: Thu May 3 11:11:41 2001
Name: Tony Brown
E-mail: tony.f.brown@baesystems.com
Organization: BAE Systems Ltd
Location: Waterlooville, Hants, UK
How the site
was found:
via curious cat
Comments:



Date: Wed May 2 18:06:07 2001
Name: Dean Vogel
E-mail: devchino1@aol.com
Organization: California Teachers Association
Location: Davis, CA
How the site
was found:
Alfie gave it to me
Comments: Alfie, Thank you for the excellent presentation at the CTA Urban Issues Conference in Oakland, CA. You gave us much to think about, and very good examples of meaningful, relevant actions that educators might take locally to begin resisting the testing madness.



Date: Wed May 2 15:31:06 2001
Name: Kay Skonieczny
E-mail: kskonieczny@awsna.org
Organization: Association of Waldorf Schools of North America
Location: Sacramento, CA
How the site
was found:
referral
Comments: I work for the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America and want to support and validate your research showing that children who learn because teachers stimulate their natural curiosity tend to retain and understand (and develop a love for life long learning I might add) more than those who learn to get good grades or high test scores. The Waldorf schools of which there are over 150 in North America assess student progress in other ways than standardized tests. High school students do take the PSAT and the SAT but teachers do no teach to these tests. Waldorf students SAT scores range from average to above average to national merit finalists. Waldorf students have also been accepted to and graduated from most of the major private and public universities in this country. This increased emphasis on testing is harmful to true learning and to student health.



Date: Tue May 1 22:50:49 2001
Name: KC Walsh
E-mail: kcwalsh@mindspring.com
Organization: Oak Grove School District
Location: San Jose
How the site
was found:
attended CTA's workshop on 4/28
Comments: Dear Alfie: Thanks for such an inspirational session on Saturday. I went in on Monday and told my Superintendent I was ready to start a revolution! Have you noticed that when your awareness gets heightened all kinds of information seems to converge? For example, on Sunday night's episode of "60 Minutes" there was a segment on Sudbury School. I watched it wondering what you thought of their program; thinking you most likely approved wholeheartedly. Then, last night on "Boston Public", an African-American student refused to take the state mandated tests. It sounded like you were talking! Once again, thank you for the enlightenment! Sincerely, KC Walsh



Date: Tue May 1 21:33:08 2001
Name: Mimi Moorehead
E-mail: awmoorehead@pdq.net
Organization: We are unschoolers
Location: Houston, Texas
How the site
was found:
I looked for it
Comments: You're wonderful. When are you coming to Houston, Texas?



Date: Tue May 1 13:11:45 2001
Name: Harry Brooks (reporter)
E-mail: hbrooks@nctimes.com
Organization: North County Times (newspaper)
Location: San Diego
How the site
was found:
Referred by Salisbury College
Comments: I'm a reporter that is putting together a story on SAT-9 testing in California. Story will also include the state's move to tie all kinds of clout and rewards to a standard test. I was told that Alfie Kohn could provide me with strong insight into this topic. The North County Times is a 90,000 circulation daily newspaper in north San Diego County, covering an area north from Del Mar into Oceanside and east from Pacific Coast through Escondido. I would appreciate getting into contact with Dr. Kohn as soon as is convenient. My phone number in Vista, Ca. is (760) 631-6621 My pager (call anytime and get immediate response) is (760) 781-6472. Thanks for your consideration, Harry Brooks



Date: Mon Apr 30 22:14:55 2001
Name: Barbra Puckett
E-mail: bpuckett@jeffco.k12.co.us
Organization: El. teacher-Jefferson Cty. Public Schools
Location: Littleton, CO
How the site
was found:
I read your new book
Comments: We are experiencing many of the things you stated in your book. Morale is low and our CSAP scores come in soon. We will probably receive a "C"grade.



Date: Mon Apr 30 20:39:49 2001
Name: Julia Ingram
E-mail: ianchia@aol.com
Organization:
Location: Tucson, AZ
How the site
was found:
Sherlock
Comments: Some members of The Partnership Way group believe Mr. Kohn is due in Tucson soon. Any chance it's true? "No Contest" changed my thinking about education, business and relationships. Thank you!



Date: Mon Apr 30 20:39:21 2001
Name: Julia Ingram
E-mail: ianchia@aol.com
Organization:
Location: Tucson, AZ
How the site
was found:
Sherlock
Comments: Some members of The Partnership Way group believe Mr. Kohn is due in Tucson soon. Any chance it's true? "No Contest" changed my thinking about education, business and relationships. Thank you!



Date: Mon Apr 30 13:35:47 2001
Name: Amber Newell
E-mail: amber.michael@virgin.net
Organization:
Location: England
How the site
was found:
link from Silencing the Bell-De-Schooling
Comments: Looking forward to reading your articles about self-esteem and 'correct' behaviour. Was on a websearch to give myself courage and comfort as sometimes others cause me to doubt (temporarily) our decision that we would educate together at home. Finding so many like minds out there is very boosting at a tough time.



Date: Mon Apr 30 01:39:25 2001
Name: Cassandra Chadwick
E-mail: nutty4quilts@aol.com
Organization: Tucson Unified School District
Location: John B. Wright Elementary
How the site
was found:
I'm reading Kohn's work
Comments: I'm looking for information about students opting out of testing.



Date: Sun Apr 29 16:55:53 2001
Name: Jennifer Chanos
E-mail: Jlinn777@aol.com
Organization: CCSD /Art Specialist Frank Lamping E. S.
Location: Henderson, Nevada
How the site
was found:
Looking for your article on Rewards/Punishment Debate
Comments:



Date: Sun Apr 29 06:51:40 2001
Name: Gabie Gedlaman
E-mail: mailto:www.azstandards.org
Organization: AZ Standards
Location: Arizona
How the site
was found:
Alfie Kohn Lecture
Comments: I've found the articles archived on the website most useful as I've been trying to lobby my local and national lawmakers to vote against 'high stakes' testing. Hope you'll all use these articles as invitations for discussions



Date: Fri Apr 27 01:36:01 2001
Name: Anonymity Requested
E-mail: uitlander188@aol.com
Organization: N/A
Location: N/A
How the site
was found:
Recently learned about Rockland Comm. College presentation, as well as your books
Comments: Mr. Kohn, how do you account for Japan, Singapore, Taiwan, Canada, and Europe? I've met some of these people, and they clearly know what they're talking about. Don't tell me theri reported higher academic performances and skills are some sort of mass hallucination on the part of the media? Please, if within your convenience, reply within 3 days. Thank you. Anonymity Requested



Date: Wed Apr 25 20:04:15 2001
Name: Stella Marrs
E-mail: Marrs7@opentech.net
Organization: Martin Luther King Multi-Purpose Center,Inc.
Location: 110 Bethune Boulevard, Spring Valley, New York 10977-4250
How the site
was found:
Your visit to Rockland Community College on April 25, 2001
Comments: This is my third attempt to send you a message. Your message is a joy to hear. Working with children who are falling through the cracks is painful. I want to share your message with our families and school system. We have a Superintendent who is willing to make change. The support our families can give him will have promise for change. Thank you for your courage, tenacity, and know I truly enjoyed the way you fed us this most vital information. I would appreciate being part of your mailing list, should you have one. Anyway you now have my E-mail address and I look forward to any information you share on a regular basis. I purchased five of your books that will keep me really busy, and will share what I heard and learned freely. Thank you for the Bright Moments. Stella Marrs



Date: Wed Apr 25 19:33:25 2001
Name: susa appel schneider
E-mail: wasuje@aol.com
Organization: true educator, parent, taxpayer, believer
Location: 56 burda avenue new city, new york 10956
How the site
was found:
I was present at the 4/25 presentation
Comments: THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU I feel so validated and am only sorry that my children could not hear you speak. Please e-mail/send me a copy of Richard Mills statement of approximately 10 years ago,and a copy of the letter written by the parents from Scarsdale to their politicans. I would like to pass this on to other EDUCATORS and hope we can expand the direction many groups are headed. I am so sorry that more people did not attend because they need to feel validated and empowered. Thank You once again for all your energy Susan Schneider



Date: Wed Apr 25 19:04:56 2001
Name: Valerie L. Mathews
E-mail: vmat210@optonline.net
Organization: Nyack Teachers Association
Location: Nyack, New York
How the site
was found:
Went to a presentation
Comments: Was very energized by Alfie's presentation at RCC this afternoon. Am interested in chatting with other test weary middle school teachers who are swimming upstream in their opposition to the ridiculous amount of testing in NYS



Date: Wed Apr 25 09:59:11 2001
Name: Mary Lou Schultz
E-mail: SchltzFmly@home.com
Organization: Encinitas School District
Location: Encinitas, CA
How the site
was found:
read your books
Comments: My district is pushing a "standards-based" report card. Where can I find help in stopping this nonsense? Thanks!



Date: Tue Apr 24 20:59:48 2001
Name: Kathryn Boles
E-mail: arck5@yahoo.com
Organization:
Location: Minnesota
How the site
was found:
Web search "Alfie Kohn"
Comments: As a mother, homeschooler, and human being, I fine your books facinating! We try to strike a balance and try to encourage without going overboard. I am curious what your views of homeschooing/unschooling are? So many homeschoolers I know or read about are either "radical" unschoolers or school-at-homers. It is difficult to find people who have these same kind of concerns. Thanks, Kathryn



Date: Tue Apr 24 11:52:39 2001
Name: Terrance Brennan
E-mail: Terrance.Brennan@PLPS.org
Organization: Pompton Lakes Public Schools
Location: Pompton Lakes, New Jersey
How the site
was found:
Brian Chinni
Comments: I support your message against standarized testing. What are you involved with currently, where are you located, and do you do presentations. Thank-you.



Date: Tue Apr 24 11:49:38 2001
Name: Terrance Brennan
E-mail: Terrance.Brennan@PLPS.org
Organization: Pompton Lakes Public Schools
Location: Pomton Lakes, New Jersey
How the site
was found:
Comments:



Date: Tue Apr 24 08:48:26 2001
Name: Susan Godsland
E-mail: orchid@eurobell.co.uk
Organization: Home Education Advisory Service
Location: www.heas.org.uk
How the site
was found:
Comments: just like to say that I've put details of Alfie's book 'Punished by Rewards' into our publication 'The Big Book of Resource Ideas' along with the comment, 'Required reading for everybody involved in education.'



Date: Mon Apr 23 22:02:45 2001
Name: Dick Stokes
E-mail: dick_stokes@beavton.k12.or.us
Organization: Beaverton Schools
Location: Beaverton, Oregon
How the site
was found:
Tikkun Magazine March/April 2001
Comments: "Out beyond right and wrong doing there is a field,I'll meet you there." Rumi



Date: Mon Apr 23 11:23:40 2001
Name: Cathleen Haskins
E-mail: cathhas@elknet.net
Organization: Montessori Program
Location: Burlington Area Schools, WI
How the site
was found:
Friends
Comments: Alfie Kohn-You have my respect and admiration. I was in Chicago at the AMS conference and applaud your stand on the issues involved in working with and having relationships with children. Your work and advocacy on behalf of children inspires me and provides me with information and ideas to further and better my own work with children. Thank you for your work!



Date: Sun Apr 22 14:38:02 2001
Name: Becky Stahlman
E-mail: becky_stahlman@hotmail.com
Organization: Scottsdale Unified Schools - teacher
Location: Scottsdale, AZ
How the site
was found:
Knew from Alfie's speech in Vancouver, Oct. 2000
Comments: Ples let me know what you think about Nebraska's project STARS. I am increasingly frustrated by state and district assessments and wonder if Nebraska's ambitious project is all that it appears to be - a more appropriate means of assessing students while giving teachers the knowledge and power to create assessments.



Date: Sat Apr 21 23:38:36 2001
Name: Sheryl King
E-mail: sking25@bellsouth.net
Organization: Passport School
Location: Orlando FL
How the site
was found:
article in edweek
Comments: Thank you for so clearly articulating my exact thoughts and feelings about high-stakes testing and its impact on students, teachers, education, and society.



Date: Fri Apr 20 06:33:18 2001
Name: Debbie Walters
E-mail:
Organization:
Location:
How the site
was found:
Comments:



Date: Wed Apr 18 01:16:51 2001
Name: Philip Gammage
E-mail: gammage.Philip@saugov.sa.gov.au
Organization: De Lissa Chair/ DETE (emeritus chair University of Nottingham)
Location: South Australia
How the site
was found:
In Listerv message
Comments: Corporate managerialism seems to have been a major trend in the western world for a decade or two. The results (as I see it) are beginning to be seen as very destructive in education and care, often unhelpfully limitimg, especially in relation to professional optimism, reflectivity and the retention of appropriate staff. Devolution to community and local control has in reality (and certainly in UK and Australia) often accompanied ever tighter centralisation of curricula and accountablity



Date: Tue Apr 17 10:39:12 2001
Name: Ron Klemp
E-mail: Rklemp@aol.com
Organization: Los Angeles Unified Sd, Cal State Nridge
Location: Los Angeles, CA
How the site
was found:
Alfie told me about it
Comments: Hi Alfie. I am working on bringing you to LA to talk with new administratos in our Academy...we have a distinguished speakers program....really enjoyed seeing you again in San Fran on March 29, or 30th...have read all your books! Thank you for being our voice of reason!



Date: Mon Apr 16 22:40:44 2001
Name: Ronette Youmans
E-mail: rdyoumans@aol.com
Organization: San Dieguito Academy High School
Location: Encinitas, Calif
How the site
was found:
from CATE lecture
Comments: I'm interested in contacting other teachers in California who are planning to donate their API $ to an unrewarded but deserving school. A symbolic rejection of the whole API program.



Date: Sun Apr 15 20:28:22 2001
Name: eris
E-mail:
Organization: J L Stanford Middle School
Location: Palo Alto, CA
How the site
was found:
Via Mr. Kohn's recent lecture in San Fransisco
Comments: I must say that the ideas presented here have helped my learning as a student. I now understand that my teachers are probably not teaching in the best ways possible. Therefore I have shifted my focus from the grades and tests to the subject matter itself. School is now more intiresting although my grades have gone down a little. I have also decided to spred the word about most of these ideas among the student and administrative bodies at my school.



Date: Sun Apr 15 20:26:15 2001
Name: eris
E-mail:
Organization: J L Stanford Middle School
Location: Palo Alto, CA
How the site
was found:
Via Mr. Kohn's recent lecture in San Fransisco
Comments: I must say that the ideas presented here have helped my learning as a student. I now understand that my teachers are probably not teaching in the best ways possible. Therefore I have shifted my focus from the grades and tests to the subject matter itself. School is now more intiresting although my grades have gone down a little. I have also decided to spred the word about most of these ideas among the student and administrative bodies at my school.



Date: Sat Apr 14 07:58:31 2001
Name: Matt Bova
E-mail: mattbovaeudora@yahoo.com
Organization: None
Location: Lawrence, Kansas
How the site
was found:
internet search
Comments: Just curious if there are some secondary teachers from Kansas who share concerns about the increasing importance attached to standardized, state-mandated testing.



Date: Fri Apr 13 14:29:38 2001
Name: BJ Strauch
E-mail: BJStrauch@aol.com
Organization: Educational Leadership Graduate Student
Location: Florida
How the site
was found:
web search
Comments: As a graduate student AND a grandparent, I found the new information on praise to be outstanding. Thank you BJ



Date: Fri Apr 13 08:47:45 2001
Name: Sandra Edelman
E-mail: O2KOOLMOM@aol.com
Organization:
Location:
How the site
was found:
Debbie Rapaport
Comments:



Date: Thu Apr 12 22:49:23 2001
Name: Ann O'Brien
E-mail: annob13@optonline.net
Organization:
Location: Seaford, NY
How the site
was found:
Research for my midterm project
Comments: