ESL -- Recent bills being considered in Congress would restrict how the funds allocated to bilingual education programs, such as English as a Second Language (ESL), could be spent. For example, one bill would bar programs from spending on teacher training. You think that:

A -- For ESL students to achieve real proficiency in the language -- and that means more than just conversational English -- they need highly tailored programs of instruction, and teachers who are specially trained to meet their needs.

B -- Students can pretty much learn the English they need by being surrounded by native English speakers, just as immigrants have been doing for centuries. Teachers don't need special training.

C -- Teaching the language to children who don't speak English is important, and ESL students do need thoughtfully designed programs, but some limits in spending are acceptable.

D -- I don't have an opinion on this issue.

The Results:

Proficiency Tests -- Many states give proficiency tests that high schoolers take prior to graduating. In some cases, students who don't pass the tests cannot graduate. In others, students' diplomas reflect how well they did. What do you think of such tests?

A -- They're a great way to gauge how well students are doing both in comparison to other districts, and in comparison to their own districts in previous years. By creating a standard measure, these tests put pressure on schools to provide quality education.

B -- Statewide tests mean statewide standards, which just aren't useful. Teachers end up helping students study for the tests rather than having the flexibility to really incite kids to learn. Thus there is no room left for creativity or diversity.

C -- Statewide tests are generally a good idea, but individual districts should be allowed to get state approval for methods of "alternative assessment" such as term papers or projects.

D -- I don't have an opinion on this issue.

The Results:

Year-round Schools -- The idea of having a longer school year in America is receiving a lot of attention. American students have one of the shortest school years in the Western world. What do you think about year-round schools?

A -- America needs them. Overcrowded districts can stagger their schedules. Continuous instruction means students will retain more of what they've learned. And it will help the country catch up with other nations whose students are more successful.

B -- We need to focus on the quality of education, not the quantity. Besides, summer breaks are an important American tradition. Kids need a break -- they'll hit the real world soon enough.

C -- Year-round schools should be considered as solutions to specific problems, such as overcrowding, but the country as a whole doesn't need to adopt a longer school year.

D -- I don't have an opinion on this issue.

The Results: