I think racial connections (or disconnections) between teacher and student work both ways. I couldn't get a word of feedback about my child's progress from a particular teacher. I'd never experienced that before with any of her teachers.

Sure, it could have been because others needed more attention or there was more feedback to give that other, struggling kids/parents/guardians needed to hear. Or, it could have just been because she didn't care because she knew she was going to walk away and leave the students behind.

But giving attention to those who need help most doesn't exclude those doing well. Whether you're doing well or not on the journey, everyone needs a map to log their current location and a compass to determine direction to ensure they're on the right path.

Feedback, both positive and negative, is crucial.

But most of all, it has to be substantive and accurate for proper assessment.

"Doing fine" doesn't cut it.

Everyone needs feedback no matter how good or bad you're doing. It's the only information that you can take action on in an informed way. Spare me the "classrooms are too big" nonsense and that only the most in need get feedback. I've never met or had a good teacher that wasn't able to help all their students effectively.

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