Part 1: Close Up Radio Welcomes Back Retired School Principal Dr. Clifford King

Savannah, GA - According to a 2023 article by Scientific American, “Two Thirds of American Kids Can’t Read Fluently.” According to renowned educator Dr. Clifford King, the problem is that an insufficient amount of time is being devoted to reading. According to Dr. King, recent trends have shifted focus predominantly to writing and arithmetic, leaving reading to fall by the wayside. “Reading is the cornerstone of all learning,” Dr. King argues. “It influences every subject area and is essential for students whether they choose to pursue higher education or enter the workforce. Without strong reading skills, students are disadvantaged across the board.” The crux of the issue, as Dr. King sees it, is in how time is allocated within the curriculum. Another concern raised by Dr. King is the increasing class sizes and the scarcity of paraprofessionals, particularly in higher grades. In smaller class settings, peer tutoring can be an effective strategy. Dr. King is an advocate for blending traditional methods with modern techniques to foster a balanced approach to reading. A significant aspect of Dr. King’s philosophy is parental involvement in education. He suggests that parents can play a crucial role in reinforcing lessons at home. While acknowledging the benefits of technology, Dr. King cautions against over-reliance on tools like Artificial Intelligence (AI). He emphasizes the importance of adapting successful past methods to today’s educational needs. Dr. Clifford King calls for a reevaluation of current educational priorities to better serve students. For more information about Dr. Clifford King, please visit https://marquistopeducators.com/2024/03/11/clifford-king/