Governor’s Conversation on Education – Akron, Ohio
Remarks and observations by Larry Doyle:
“The Conversation with the Governor at North High School in Akron, Ohio was very well orchestrated. Representatives from the Governor’s office made sure the invited guests felt welcome and important as they arrived. Holly Hollingsworth acted as the moderator for the forum and made sure the program flowed smoothly and maintained a high level of professionalism. She introduced Governor Strickland to the crowd of “heavy hitters.” There were teachers, administrators, businessmen and women, executive directors representing state organizations, charter school representatives, home school reps, after school program directors, concerned parents and a few students who filled the auditorium. The Governor shared his ideas about Education Reform. He suggested that students need individualized instruction. The advanced students should not be held back by slower students and slower students should not feel like failures if they can’t move forward at the same pace as others.
He opened the microphone to the audience, hoping to hear new and innovative ideas on how to improve Education. There were a couple good ideas like promoting the interdisciplinary approach to education and including local businesses in the educational process but some speakers had a predetermined agenda to get the Governor to listen to them about their particular organization. He remained cordial but it was obvious he wanted to hear new ideas. One woman talked about the relationship between physical exercise and brain activity and the importance of Physical Education in the public schools. The Governor responded with a convincing look in his eye about the importance of Physical Education. Later, John, from the “gov’s office” assured me the governor is aware that there is a concern about Physical Education being left behind when there is so much emphasis on academics. He indicated the Governor is very much concerned about the health of all the children in Ohio. John mentioned our Executive Director’s name, Cecilia, as he talked about Physical Education and Health. Good job Cecilia!
After the large group time with the Governor, we broke into small groups of between 5-8 people. As a small group, we were asked to write down what we thought were the biggest needs in Education. We also had an opportunity, as individuals, to write down new ideas for improving Education.
If you have the opportunity to attend, and you want to speak, be ready to jump up and be the first one! You may not have the chance if you don’t get to go first.”
Larry Doyle, Physical Education Teacher, Central School, Brecksville, Ohio
