In his recent Ed Week commentary, Ron Wolk has once again given us reason to admire his stamina and longevity, and his ability to see the forest through the trees. His intellect and presence have provided a common sense orientation for several generations of educators and policy makers. In this latest essay, he couples each of the faulty assumptions he identifies with clear reminders about how young people really learn, how teachers grow and thrive, and how the easy appeal of certain slogans and goals has led us away from the pragmatic solutions we must pursue now more than ever.

When I was working as a principal, my staff and I knew the importance of students getting off to a good start. For the most part, the kids made it easy. After a summer off, most were anxious to socialize, show their stuff, and make a good impression on their classmates and teachers. Many, particularly those for whom school wasn’t easy, were looking for a second chance, a way to break from the failures and disappointments of the past.