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www.oakvillebeaver.com The Oakville Beaver Weekend, Saturday February 16, 2008 - 9 Burlington MPP accuses government of propping up marks Continued from page 5 tension caused for some students by things like assignment deadlines and final exams. "It's not (about) what's wrong with the child, it's what's wrong with the (learning) environment. As teachers we have to believe that all students can learn and that's why we're fanatics about thoughtful assessment." Several trustees say they agree with the board's policy of dealing differently with some students. "This issue has been Halton-ized," said Oakville trustee Philippa Ellis. "It is taking away punitive actions. It, in a way, means they don't get a zero (mark). It's (acknowledging) differentiated learning; it's working in my school." Board chair Gillian Tuck Kutarna said her impression is that the board is in transition regarding the application of ministry guidelines and board policy on the issue. Meanwhile, Wynne reiterated that the province's student assessment and evaluation guidelines are detailed and clear. "It's basically a progressive process where a teacher has a number of tools to get kids to hand in their homework, and if not they can take marks off. So, there is nothing in the ministry guidelines that would not allow a teacher to do that. Every board has to have (student evaluation) policies that are consistent with the ministry guidelines," she said. "If a student is looking to take advantage of a policy, just about any policy can be taken advantage of. I really think it comes down to individual teachers working with their kids, helping them to understand how the kids in the class are being treated (differently)." Savoline said there could be extraordinary circumstances where marks shouldn't be deducted for homework lateness, but she believes the kid-glove approach by the Liberals on the issue is ultimately about graduating as many students as possible. "There are certain exceptional situations where leniency should be available, but it should be up to the discretion of our teachers to make that decision," said Savoline. "It shouldn't be exploited by the McGuinty Liberals as an attempt to prop up slipping student achievement." The Tory-Savoline response noted that in the 2007 Ontario election the Liberals promised to raise the high school graduation rate to 85 per cent by 2010. "Not only is this politically motivated, it also sends the wrong message to our kids. The government is essentially telling them that it's okay not to do the (home)work they are being asked to do," said Savoline. "There may be no deadlines or accountability in Dalton McGuinty's world, but that's not the way the real world works. It's time for the McGuinty government to give our young people "Not only is this politically motivated, it also sends the wrong message to our kids. The government is essentially telling them that it's okay not to do the (home)work they are being asked to do." Burlington MPP Joyce Savoline the skills they need to succeed in the future." Tory said, "This latest responsibilitykiller from the McGuinty government is unfair to the kids who actually do their work on time. It undermines everyone from police to parents who are trying hard to encourage kids to follow the rules and be accountable." Wynne scoffed at what she considers political rhetoric by Opposition members. "I absolutely reject that notion," she said of specific criticism related to the ministry pushing school boards to graduate students by any means. "If that's the way Mr. Tory and Miss Savoline think, that's their problem ... Our objective ... is to help kids get their high school diploma. We want kids to graduate with the knowledge they need to go on to college or university. Surely, that is the goal of public education." Lakeshore Rd. at Dunn St. Downtown Oakville LENTEN LUNCH SERIES You are invited to join with Rev. Mike for an exploration of Jesus' CROSS WORDS. During the series we will reflect upon the last statements of Jesus, which He spoke from the Cross, and consider their implications for us today, at home and in the world. Bring a bag lunch and join us at noon each Wednesday for the lunch hour. Here are the weeks at a glance: · February 13th · February 20th · February 27th · March 5th · March 12th · March 19th Today you will be with me in paradise. Behold the son; behold your mother. My God! My God! Why have you forsaken me? I thirst. It is finished. Into your hands I commit my spirit. Each week will include hymn singing, a soloist, a short meditation on the theme, and lots of table-fellowship. Tea and coffee will be provided. Just remember to bring your bag lunch,and a friend! www.knoxoakville.com knoxoakville@cogeco.net 905-844-3472 Think Green. Breathe Easy. 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