Dear Readers,
Today I am reposting a piece I wrote four months ago for two reasons: 1. I fell yesterday and injured my hand badly enough that it hurts to write; 2. I have not yet received any of the writing contributions I begged for back then. If you feel sorry for me or guilting about not responding to my request the first time, do it now!
P. S. I expect to recover fully within three or four days. Your contributions will help to speed the process.
After calling for the voices of students on this blog a few days ago, I have given more thought about how to keep everyone safe. Even though I would like teachers to encourage students to write about school experiences and their ideas for change, I now think it would be best for them to do their writing outside of school. I also think students should sign only their first names on any pieces they submit. I do not want them or their teachers to risk being questioned or punished for something they sent to me. In addition, I assure all contributors that I will not share any information about them unless they specifically say it’s okay to do so.
As for how to submit a piece of writing, post it in the space labeled “Comments” at the bottom of this page. Only I will see what is written there. Please keep them short.
P.S. Parents and teachers are also encouraged to write about students’ experiences.
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To get writers started, here are some of the topics I’d like to hear their opinions about, but they may certainly write to me about anything that concerns them.
What do you think about homework assignments? Are there too many at once, too difficult, a waste of time, or helpful to your learning?
Is bullying rampant at your school? What could teachers, administrators, or you and your friends do to reduce the problem or stop it altogether?
What are your feelings about“high stakes”testing? Were the tests you’ve taken too long, too difficult, or some of the questions unreasonable? Did you give your best efforts on such a test or just the bare minimum?
If you were the principal of your school, what would be the first changes you would make and why did you choose them?
The Treasure Hunter 
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