Jason Bonilla’s Post

There has been an update from Boston Public Schools on their special education programs as the federal probe in Massachusetts continues. Last week, Superintendent Mary Skipper put forth a multi-year plan to improve the city’s special education offerings. As a possible point of concern, last year, the district had already agreed to make significant changes to its special education programs to avoid a state takeover as part of a “state-mandated improvement plan.” The article is not clear if the federal probe was a continuation of the investigation into how Boston Public Schools were running their special education programs or resulting from a need for further follow-up. This multi-year plan announced by Superintendent Mary Skipper will focus on inclusion and equity of students with disabilities within the general education classroom. Time will tell if this federal probe results in effective action. Students’ entitlement to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) has long been on the books, and yet, special education students have also been allowed to fall through the cracks for far too long. #NewsUpdate #SpecialEducation #StudentsWithDisabilities #EducationReform https://lnkd.in/gy673qSn

I was speaking to a school leader the other day and we were discussing equity issues in America's K-12 schools. As we wrapped up our conversation, I told him that many people discuss equity issues but do not work to advance equity in schools. I shared some of the issues that are not foreign to many of us, but then I shared how I will be working to advance equity in schools. Here are several issues: 1. The NAEP, often referred to as the "Nation's Report Card," consistently shows significant achievement gaps in reading and math between White students and students of color. These gaps persist over time. 2. Graduation rates vary significantly among different racial and socioeconomic groups. Students from disadvantaged backgrounds often have lower graduation rates compared to their more privileged peers. 3. Funding disparities between schools in affluent and impoverished neighborhoods can lead to differences in school resources, class sizes, and support services. 4. Students from minority backgrounds are disproportionately disciplined and suspended. 5. English language learners may face challenges in academic achievement due to language barriers, creating additional gaps. To help support school leaders, I will be providing targeted support by consulting with district administrative teams providing professional development on equity through a book study of my new book, "Be The Driving Force: Leading Your School on the Road to Equity". https://lnkd.in/gJ-4mQQk Contact me if your district needs support in advancing equity and implementing strategies to help ALL students and staff to be successful.

Charter schools Charter schools have emerged as a significant component of the educational landscape, offering an alternative to traditional public schools. These schools operate with greater autonomy in exchange for increased accountability, aiming to foster innovation and address the diverse needs of students. Charter schools are publicly funded schools that operate independently of local school districts, governed by a charter or contract. This charter outlines the school's mission, academic goals, methods of assessment, and accountability measures. Charter schools have the flexibility to design their curriculum, staffing, and educational approach, allowing for experimentation and customization. Charter schools have the freedom to adopt innovative teaching methods, curricula, and educational philosophies tailored to the needs of their students. Charter schools provide parents with alternatives to traditional public schools, allowing them to select an educational environment that aligns with their child's learning style and values. Some charter schools specifically target underserved communities or students at risk of academic failure, providing them with additional support and resources to improve educational outcomes. While charter schools have autonomy, this can lead to inconsistencies in quality and accountability, with some schools failing to meet academic standards or mismanaging funds. Critics claim that charter schools engage in selective enrollment practices, leading to concerns about equity and accessibility for students with disabilities or English language learners. Charter schools represent a dynamic and evolving aspect of the educational landscape, offering both opportunities and challenges. While they have the potential to foster innovation, address achievement gaps, and provide parental choice, they also face criticisms regarding equity, oversight, and accountability. #charterschools #innovativelearning #moderneducation #talentserve

good read, https://lnkd.in/g6ECV_wf .. the talking points, 1. **Intrinsic Appeal**: School choice is valued for providing diverse educational options that align with parents' values and educational goals for their children, such as classical education that emphasizes truth, goodness, and beauty. 2. **Beyond Test Scores**: Arguments for school choice often focus on improved test scores and competition, but the article argues for a broader view that includes the richness and variety of educational models. 3. **Cultural Fit**: Parents choose schools not just for academic performance but for a better fit with their desired school culture and curriculum.

As a nominee for the 2025 Ohio Teacher of the Year, I'm deeply committed to advancing youth development through physical education in the East Cleveland City School District and Cuyahoga County with the support of my Superintendent, Dr. Henry Pettiegrew II. My vision is to create a society where every child has the opportunity to explore their strengths, agility, and potential through the power of movement. This transformative journey begins by nurturing fundamental motor skills, which serve as the cornerstone for lifelong health and vitality. Imagine the profound impact on children as they gain confidence through mastering new skills, their faces beaming with the joy of accomplishment. These early experiences transcend mere play; they lay the groundwork for physical well-being, fostering robust bodies and resilient spirits. The benefits extend beyond physical health, contributing to improved mental well-being and cultivating a sense of balance and joy that permeate all aspects of their lives. Reflecting on the relationships my students build on the playground and the lessons they learn on the field, I witness the development of crucial social skills such as teamwork, perseverance, and leadership. These experiences are pivotal in fostering collaboration and unity among young minds. Regular physical activity, facilitated through physical education, instills discipline, goal-setting, and the ability to overcome challenges. These experiences not only enhance athletic prowess but also contribute to academic and personal growth. Perhaps most inspiring is how early engagement in physical education can spark lifelong passions. It provides children with the opportunity to explore various sports and activities, uncover their unique talents, and aspire to new heights. With the right guidance and encouragement, these young students can realize their full potential. In the grand tapestry of life, youth development through physical education is the common thread that connects health, happiness, and potential. It represents a journey of self-discovery, a celebration of capability, and a commitment to nurturing the future leaders, thinkers, and dreamers of tomorrow. By investing in our students today, we are laying the foundation for a brighter, healthier, and more dynamic future for all.

Title: The Case for Specialized Elementary Schools in Brighton Beach and Coney Island As the education landscape continues to evolve, it is essential to recognize the unique needs of students in every community. In Brighton Beach and Coney Island, there is a growing demand for specialized elementary schools that cater to the diverse interests and talents of young learners. Specialized elementary schools offer focused learning experiences that can nurture a child's individual strengths and interests. By providing a tailored curriculum, these schools can better engage students and support their academic growth, ultimately preparing them for future success. In Brighton Beach and Coney Island, where students come from various cultural backgrounds and face different challenges, specialized elementary schools can provide targeted support and resources to address specific needs. For example, a school with a focus on language immersion could benefit students who are bilingual or come from immigrant families, helping them maintain and develop their language skills. Moreover, specialized schools can offer unique opportunities for students to explore their passions and talents, whether in the arts, sciences, technology, or other fields. By exposing children to a variety of experiences early on, these schools can inspire a lifelong love of learning and encourage creativity and innovation. Critics may argue that specialized schools can lead to segregation or inequality. However, it is crucial to ensure that these schools are accessible to all students and promote diversity and inclusion. By implementing equitable admissions criteria and providing support for students from underserved communities, specialized schools can create a more inclusive learning environment for all. In conclusion, the establishment of specialized elementary schools in Brighton Beach and Coney Island can offer tremendous benefits to the local community. By embracing the unique needs and talents of students, these schools can provide a high-quality education that prepares children for the challenges of tomorrow. It is time to invest in specialized education to unlock the full potential of our young learners and build a brighter future for all. By considering this perspective, we can work towards creating a more diverse, engaging, and inclusive educational system that meets the needs of every child in Brighton Beach and Coney Island. Thank you Scott Krivitsky

Explore the the differences between our B.A., M.A., and Ed.D. in Early Childhood Education to find the right program for you: https://ow.ly/ABqI50SWZXI

Research Update! Navigating Special Education Labels "Understanding Special Education Labels for Equity" discusses the intricate dynamics of labeling in special education and its profound implications for educational equity. The article underscores how labels can influence students' access to support services and educational opportunities. One key takeaway is the critical need for educators to navigate these labels with care and consideration, recognizing their potential to either empower or marginalize students. By understanding the complexities of labeling practices and their impact on equity, teachers can advocate for inclusive education environments where all students have the opportunity to thrive regardless of their label. Check it out for some interesting insights!  https://lnkd.in/gP5XgU5H

Meet 7 Changemakers Who Are Raising Their Voices for Public Education

The Learning Policy Institute is hosting the following free webinar on June 18th (with a post recording available to all who register). It looks interesting! Who would like to join me? From LPI: "Research shows that racially, ethnically, and socioeconomically integrated learning environments can lead to academic and social benefits for children. However, most early childhood education (ECE) programs are remarkably segregated. Segregation in ECE settings is driven by patterns of residential segregation, but it is also driven by policies that govern access to programs. For example, publicly funded preschool is often not universally accessible. Further, the current ECE system in most states is composed of a patchwork of programs, each of which has its own eligibility requirements and funding that make integration challenging. This webinar will illuminate the important, but often overlooked, problem of segregation in ECE settings. It will identify strategies that policymakers and administrators can use to foster integration, including establishing universal ECE programs, braiding public funding, allowing tuition-paying families to enroll in public programs, attracting families across neighborhoods or district boundaries, and creating two-way dual language immersion programs. Presenters will describe examples of cities and states putting these strategies into action. "