Against this background of strife, recent events in Palo Alto carry a special significance. As reported in the Palo Alto Weekly (SCHOOLS: End may be near to math debate -- Board in agreement on parents' choice initiative, by Elizabeth Darling, Jan. 31, 1997), the local school board appears willing to support a request from parents to implement a choice of math programs in their middle schools. The article quotes the parents' request as saying:
"In an effort to better satisfy the diverse educational needs of middle school children, as well as to unify the parent and teacher communities, we propose that the district offer a direct-instruction team of choice at both middle schools beginning in September 1997"
There is no doubt that the implementation of a system that affords this choice will be a difficult process, and approval of such a plan is a long way from seeing a successful alternative in place in their district. However, events in Palo Alto have got to be seen as a step in the correct direction. No one is claiming that this move is as significant internationally as, say, a Middle-East peace accord. But, in the clash over mathematics education, what happens in Palo Alto is very important. Peace (and satisfied parents) in Palo Alto would be wonderful.