IRA comments on new report

Commenting on recommendations from the New Commission on the Skills of the American Workforce, the International Reading Association focused on the importance of teachers as vital change agents in any effort to reform and improve American schools. “The success of any necessary education reform effort, large or small, depends on having outstanding teachers in every classroom and at the table when far reaching decisions are made about policy, curriculum, and assessment,” notes Alan E. Farstrup, IRA’s executive director.

Farstrup points out, “Already, many students are benefiting from the additional professional development and resources made available to teachers through programs like Reading First. Recruitment of strong teacher candidates, excellent teacher preparation, and ongoing access to new research in support of best instructional practices are central elements in preparing students to compete and collaborate internationally.”

The International Reading Association applauds efforts by countries throughout the world to improve access to quality education for all. There is a growing recognition that excellent education is crucial to the future success and growth of students and their societies worldwide.

Farstrup concludes, “Literacy is a critically important common denominator, creating and fueling progress that technology and expanded knowledge make possible. The world’s future workforce deserves education systems that recognize and honor the professionalism of teachers and vests in them the capacity to act in the best interests of their students. With broad community support, public schools remain the most essential environment in which to prepare and challenge children to develop the knowledge and skills they will offer the world.”

For further information about the new report, visit the webpage of the New Commission on the Skills of the American Workforce.