Cursive: It’s About More Than Writing
For release Aug. 24 and thereafter (737 words) “Cursive handwriting has been omitted from the Common Core State Standards, the new curriculum standard that more than 40 states adopted last summer.” ~ the Associated Press Beginning this fall, Indiana’s State Department of Education will no longer require public schools to teach cursive writing. Instead, students Read the full article…
It’s All About Reading at ‘Third Grade Academy’
(Richmond, Ind.) – When their city got the nickname “dropout factory” a few years back, retired businessmen Vic Jose and Rick Ahaus decided to do something about it. Four years later, the Third Grade Academy — an intensive summer program for struggling readers — is nudging ISTEP scores higher. It’s also inspired the National Civic Read the full article…
Half a Job Is Better Than None at All
For release Aug. 10 and thereafter (682 words) Low wages, earned part-time, are often ridiculed by those who do not have to justify their employment week by week. Most part-timers, though, maintain their skills, work legitimately, report taxable income and contribute payroll taxes. Their meager earnings buy groceries and pay for utilities. For many, part-time Read the full article…
Right-to-Work States Have the Edge
For release Aug. 3 and thereafter (680 words) It doesn’t take an economist to spot the common thread in these recent economic development headlines: Chattanooga, Tenn.: “Volkswagen hires 2,000th employee.” July 29 Shreveport, La.: “NJ-based bag manufacturer to build Louisiana plant.” July 28 Decatur, Ala.: “Polyplex to build $185 million plant.” July 21 West Point, Read the full article…
It Is Far Past Time to Extend Debt Ceiling
Time sensitive; for immediate release (838 words) The Congress is playing a dangerous political game with the lives of all Americans. Many in Congress will protest that that this is no game and that our children’s future is at stake. But the costs will ramp up well before the burden falls upon our children. Indeed, Read the full article…
Debt Crises: Opportunity for a Balanced Budget
Time sensitive copy; for immediate release (660 words) In 1995 Congress came within one vote of passing a balanced budget amendment. Dan Coats and Dick Lugar voted in favor of the amendment and to this day lament the missed opportunity. “If this amendment had passed and been ratified by three-fourths of our states, we would Read the full article…
