I found this in the Public Education Network Weekly NewsBlast, and post here and on my personal blog.

“Not on the Test” satirizes the American education system’s renewed focus on rote teaching.

Tom Chapin, a Grammy Award-winning musician perhaps best known for children’s music, has released a new song titled “Not on the Test.” The song satirizes the American education system’s renewed focus on rote teaching, in which tests have become the sole reason to teach and learn. Music, art, drama and sports were what kept Chapin engaged in school. In addition, these subjects make the teacher’s (and the student’s) job easier and infinitely more rewarding. Unfortunately, they are also what have been cut from curriculums across the country as Chapin explains lightheartedly in song.

Chapin’s web site for “Not on the Test” has helpful links and information, including audio, video, lyrics, and art. Tom Chapin’s Official Web Site also features “Not on the Test.”

As one concerned that budget cuts will eviscerate a good education, I resonate and recommend.

Step Into Summer Opportunities Fair 2008 is the highlight of a video recently posted on the Columbus City Schools website. The report dated 3/4/2008 may presently be found on the right side of the main page.

For a more permanent link, should the above go “extinct,” try this. (You may need to download and then view, depending upon your setup.)

caveats: The file is over 25 MB! (Don’t try this on dial-up!) It is also in a proprietary format (WMV - Windows Media Video).

Addendum: the link on C.C.S. main page is extinct. use the second link.