Inaugural Book Discussion

The RFArea Wisconsin Retired Educators' Association kicked off its book discussion group on Wednesday, May 14, 2014, at the River Falls Public Library.  The focus of the discussion was Diane Ravitch's most recent book entitled Reign of Error:  The Hoax of the Privatization Movement and the Danger to America's Public Schools.  Nick Been, Vice Principal at River Falls High School (and Ruth Wood's former student), joined the conversation, providing interesting local perspectives on standardized testing, Wisconsin educational mandates and initiatives, and the politicization of education.

Members Larry Harred, Jane Harred, Ethel Johnson, Marylin Plansky,

 

Bernie Brohaugh, Ruth Wood, and River Falls High School Vice Principal Nick Been

 

Jane Harred and Ethel Johnson

The next book discussion will be held in July.  It was agreed that a good summertime read will be Richard Rodriguez's The Hunger of Memory:  The Education of Richard Rodriguez.  Not only is Rodriguez an excellent writer, but his memoir provides wonderful insights about the challenges of English language learners navigating American education, the "cost" of education to immigrant children, and other educational issues.  It's a great book.  More details regarding exact place and time will be forthcoming.