Edelblut met with doubt over proposed changes to minimum standards

The Manchester school board members are up in arms over proposed revisions to the state’s minimum standards for public schools, known as the 306s. Despite a public conversation with the commissioner of the N.H. Department of Education, they remain frustrated and unconvinced that these revisions will actually improve education in the Granite State.

During the meeting, board member Sean Parr expressed concerns that the revisions may actually lower the bar for education, despite claims that they raise it. The lack of transparency in the revision process has also raised red flags for educators and board members alike.

One of the major concerns raised was the removal of specific class size limits, with board members worried that this could lead to drastic increases in class sizes at the local level. The issue of equity was also discussed, with the commissioner emphasizing the need to focus on students who are struggling, rather than grouping students based on identity.

Despite the commissioner’s attempts to downplay concerns and reassure the board, members remain skeptical and distrustful of the process. The final draft of the revisions has yet to be made public, leaving many questions unanswered.

The fate of the 306 revisions now lies in the hands of the Joint Legislative Committee on Administrative Rules (JLCAR), which will have the final say on whether the revisions are in the public’s best interest. The Manchester school board members are adamant that the revisions do not serve the best interests of the public and are prepared to fight for changes that will benefit the students of New Hampshire.