"The Shame of a Nation" really made me feel defeated and beat down. Although the schools Kozol had visited were not even in our state it reminded me of situations around me. The program approach is gaining speed within our county. I feel that soon we will be teaching robots rather than innovative educators. It is my hope that educators will be compassionate and set high expectations for all students.

Holly, I totally agree. Sadly, the book reminded me a lot of the problems I face daily at my own school. Our school is mostly african american/hispanic students who come from low socioeconomic backgrounds. Year after year, our school scores low on the standardized tests. As a result, our school seeks out new "programs." Sadly, we are even doing a scripted reading program which requires the teacher to follow the script word by word. I definately feel like a robot! Is this scripted program helping my students? no! Instead, I have to use up more time in my day to do guided reading which leaves little time for science and social studies. Very frustrating!