From long-simmering concerns over reading instruction and teacher burnout to newer concerns relating to the role of artificial intelligence in education, readers wrote in response to EdWeek鈥檚 coverage of the latest in K-12 news and insights.
Below are the most-read Letters to the Editor of the past year. You can find the complete collection of letters here.
1. Meaning Must Come First During Reading Instruction
A reading tutor pushes back against the science of reading in this letter to the editor. Read more.
In response to the article 鈥What Is Background Knowledge, and How Does It Fit Into the Science of Reading?鈥 (Jan. 30, 2023).
2. We Need a New Way to Teach Phonics
Let鈥檚 hear more about different, engaging ways to teach phonics. Read more.
In response to the article 鈥鈥業 Literally Cried': Teachers Describe Their Transition to Science-Based Reading Instruction鈥 (Sept. 15, 2023).
3. Treat Teachers Like Human Beings to Avoid Burnout
Understanding teachers鈥 limitations and strengths to utilize their skills in ways that drive their passion can also help avoid burnout. Read more.
In response to the principal-advice column 鈥5 Strategies to Empower Teachers to Be Leaders鈥 (March 28, 2023).
4. Schools Must Do Better to Meet IDEA Requirements
More states must follow through on this law. Read more.
In response to the article 鈥Do More to Ensure Schools Meet Obligations to Students With Disabilities, Feds Tell States鈥 (July 27, 2023).
5. How to Co-Exist With Tech Is ChatGPT鈥檚 Lesson
Sure, the program can lead to cheating, but it can also free up teachers鈥 time for important instruction. Read more.
In response to the Opinion blog post 鈥ChatGPT: Teachers Weigh In on How to Manage the New AI Chatbot鈥 (Jan. 3, 2023).