The North Dakota Study Group on Evaluation is a diverse network of
progressive educators dedicated to advocacy for useful, fair, and
democratic ways to document and assess children's learning and offering
a criticism of educational reform and practice in the light of an
enduring concern with democracy and the estate of childhood.
The group meets annually, every President's Day weekend, at the
Resurrection Center for Collaborative Education in Woodstock, Illinois.
On Saturday night, after the formal session ends, an open planning
meeting for next year begins. Then in early August at the Buxton School
in Williamstown, MA, a planning committee continues that work. This
summer meeting is open to anyone who wants to attend. Those August
plans are refined over e-mail right up until the February meeting,
often shifting to accommodate last minute changes and new
opportunities.
The tone is serious, intense -- we often address a particular text
or question -- and yet informal. The network of friendships and
professional connections are strong and grow stronger each year for
those who attend regularly. Home groups welcome and create a place for
newcomers, often, young teachers.
The meetings began in the early 70's with about 30 attendees. Now,
well over 100 people attend. Not only the size changed, but the
composition of the group. Classroom teachers were few until the early
80's, when invited teacher panels became a feature each year. Until the
early 80's, the group was primarily White. The group challenges itself
with continued efforts to deepen understanding of race and ethnicity
and to solidify the connections with attendees of color. Those who
participate currently include new teachers, veteran teachers,
university professors, community activists, independent scholar
undergraduates, deans, foundations program officers, principals. Shared
rooms (optional) and cafeteria style meals add to the experience of
informal mixing.