KC>  I would like to hear your opinions on two subjects which are currently 
"hot
KC>  topics in the local area.
KC>  1)  Year-round schooling.  What benefits accrue to the students in a 
year-r
KC>  school environment?  What affect does this have on instructor 
preparation?
This is my personal take, having not experienced year-round schooling, but 
only
having peripherally observed it in some nearby communities and discussing it
on-line:
There really isn't much, if any, measurable benefit to the students as a 
result
of year round schooling. Supposed improvement on retaining knowledge has not
made the headlines of the newspapers here in California, and they've had many
schools on year round here.
Secondly, as a teacher, I'd rather have the summer off. This allows me to 
ake
classes, or enroll my kids in summer swim programs, or some teachers take a
summer job or travel (often education related). These things would be at the
very least, difficult, if not impossible on a year round schedule.
KC>  2)  Uniforms.  A local school has instituted a voluntary uniform program 
fo
KC>  the students.  How much do uniforms in a public school actually help 
discip
KC>  and the self-esteem of the students?  What negative influences, if any, 
do
KC>  uniforms have on the development and education of the student?
In some areas, the uniforms really do help. Some gang areas have had 
noticeable
improvements.
My kids school considered adopting uniforms for this school year. As the
debate raged on, last year, I hoped that they wouldn't adopt them. Our
community is middle-class and fairly safe. I couldn't see that they would
offer much here.
Sheila
KC>  Kevin
KC>  --- Telegard v3.02/mL
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