Common Core may not be fixable
Common Core relies on a modeling process to teach fraction-related topics which provides the student with awkward ways of understanding and initially solving problems. While constructive for very simple problems, these modeling techniques fall apart when utilized for more complicated ones. They serve as poorly thought-out scaffolding to be shelved when the students use the standard techniques for solving real problems.
Since the scaffolding may be tested, if a teacher decides not to use the recommended approach, a chance exists that the child would be unprepared for questions relating to this approach. Looking at the implementation process, we begin to understand how 92 percent of the teachers get good ratings while 70 percent of the children fail. We also understand why children suffer stress and parents, as with their children, cannot comprehend what’s being taught so that they can help them.
Having worked with a number of students from several school districts, I have witnessed this catastrophe firsthand. This is one of the many examples in which we find that Common Core poorly utilizes time in teaching subjects and leaves the child baffled after the unit is completed. If the Common Core implementation is so riddled with problems because of a poor implementation process, it could be better to scrap it than to spend a fortune to fix it. The public focus should be on whether Common Core can be realistically fixed or should we go back to a system that was failing.
Many came to aid
On Sept. 4, the Highland Cemetery suffered a senseless act of vandalism. A total of 142 monuments were toppled over, along with their bases. A number of the older stones and statues were damaged and numerous veteran markers and flags were destroyed.
The number of volunteers who came forward to assist in the restoration was overwhelming, but because of the complexity and liability of this undertaking, it became necessary to hire Weidner Monuments of Highland. Weidner has superior experience and specialized equipment, which proved necessary, and the repairs were done in a timely and professional manner. This firm did an outstanding job.
The New York state Division of Cemeteries maintains a fund to assist cemeteries in the restoration of damage done by vandalism. Almost all of the necessary funds have been received from this agency.
The Highland Cemetery board of trustees would like to wholeheartedly thank the businesses, individuals and families who donated money to help pay for the additional costs associated with these repairs.
The Town of Lloyd Police Department continues to investigate leads in this crime. A sizable reward has been established for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the persons responsible for this crime. Anyone can contact the Town of Lloyd Police Department at 845-691-6102 or the Highland Cemetery at 845-691-6332.
superintendent/trustee, Highland Cemetery
Meals on Wheels thanks supporters
During this season of thankfulness and good will, we want to express our appreciation for the ongoing support of the community. Because of this support, we have been able to keep our client fees at a stable, affordable level, despite the rising cost of food, rent and insurance. Since 1974, when we started with 15 clients, we have been able to survive because the community has recognized the value of our mission. Many of the local churches have supported us from the beginning. Local groceries have helped in various ways.
In particular, Adams of Wappinger has been extremely generous since opening their Wappinger store. Individuals have also remembered Meals on Wheels in appreciation for the service to their loved ones. Finally, over the past few years, we are particularly thankful to the New Hamburg Yacht Club for donating the significant proceeds of their annual golf tournament to Meals on Wheels. This has allowed us to cover ongoing operating deficits and cover other replacement and maintenance costs.
As we look forward to a positive future, our heartfelt thanks to you all.