The Irony of Everyday Math

The following comment was posted on this blog:

My son who has just completed 4th grade at Oak Creek Elementary received his standardized test results. He has scored below the state minimum in math, so we have taken him to get remedial math instruction. He has tested 1 1/2 grade levels below where he should be, he has no concept of math basics, and I am being told that it is due to the confusing and worthless method of Everyday Mathematics. How can a successful and respected district like Olentangy subscribe to this mess of a program? I'm disgusted!!

A very good question. And, the answer exposes the irony of Progressive education programs such as Everyday Math in districts like Olentangy.

How can a school district subscribe to "this mess?" Simple. The parents whose children suffer because of such educational malpractice do what any similarly situated parent would do: they seek help for their child. Parents such as the above poster either work with their child at home or utilize the many outside providers of math intervention.

Of course, the children improve, not because of district programs, but because parents care.

The irony: The improvements that result from parental concern are recorded as proof that the district has chosen the right program. This is because the district takes credit for any instance of improved performance, even improvements that result from parent's time or money.

Ever wonder why Sylvan Learning and other such providers do so well in Olentangy? You now know. Your taxes pay for the harm, and then you must pay to correct the failures of administrators and board members who select and approve such programs; programs that do not teach math.

The solution: Arm yourself with the facts that show the failures of fuzzy math. And, don't allow district administrators to spin some nonsense about the benefits of Everyday Math. A muddled response - a response that sounds like a lot of hooey - is the product of muddled thinking. Don't allow your child to be harmed by administrators and board members who are more concerned about feel-good garbage than education.