Learning from Singapore's school success

"Most of his remarks celebrated Singapore’s success, as usual," the Economist said. "But then he berated parents for coaching their 3- or 4-year-old children to give them that extra edge over the 5-year-old competition. And he added: 'Please let your children have their childhood. … Instead of growing up balanced and happy, [they] grow up narrow and neurotic. No homework is not a bad thing. It’s good for young children to play, and to learn through play.'"

A delegation from North Carolina visited Singapore to learn from the country's economic and education system, and brought back recommendations in a report called "Learning From Singapore."

Teacher quality was cited as a major factor in the success of Singapore's education system. Teacher candidates in Singapore are recruited from the academic upper one-third of high school graduation classes, and given full tuition and a salary while studying to become teachers. And, the beginning pay for teachers is higher than that for medical doctors starting out in their field.

Lessons learned from the North Carolina cultural delegation included:

1. The importance of vision and planning that integrates economic development and education;
2. The return that comes from thoughtful investments in teachers and school leadership; and
3. The potential gains that result from harnessing research-based best practices from around the world.

EMAIL: cbaker@deseretnews.com