When Did David Coleman Start at the College Board? A Journey Through the World of Standardized Tests (and Big Bucks)
So, you’re curious about David Coleman’s tenure at the College Board. Well, buckle up, buttercup, because we’re about to dive into the fascinating (and sometimes infuriating) world of standardized testing, educational reform, and a guy who seemingly single-handedly controls the destiny of millions of high school students.
The Answer, My Friend, Is Blowing in the Wind (Okay, Maybe Not That Dramatic)
David Coleman took the reins of the College Board, the prestigious non-profit organization responsible for administering the SAT and AP exams, in the fall of 2012. Now, you might be thinking, “Fall? That’s vague.” And you’d be right. But, hey, even the most powerful education figures can’t escape the vagaries of the academic calendar. We’re talking about a man who redesigned the SAT, folks!
The Story of a Man Who’s Seen It All
David Coleman didn’t just waltz into the College Board like a prince charming swooping in to save the day. He had a long and winding career in education, a journey that started with a degree in philosophy from Yale and then took him to the hallowed halls of Oxford and Cambridge. He’s got the academic pedigree to make even the most accomplished intellectuals feel a little insecure.
But Coleman’s ambition went beyond the classroom. He was drawn to the world of educational policy, landing a gig at the “Student Achievement Partners,” a non-profit organization dedicated to improving public education. It was here, amongst the wonks and policy experts, that he rose to prominence as a driving force behind the Common Core State Standards Initiative.
The Common Core: A Love-Hate Relationship
Ah, the Common Core. A topic guaranteed to spark passionate debates in any room, even among people who’ve never seen the inside of a classroom. Coleman, the architect of this ambitious reform, wanted to create a set of standardized learning goals for all students, regardless of their location. He argued that this would ensure a consistent and rigorous education for everyone, and create a better, more unified system for preparing students for college and careers.
However, the Common Core wasn’t universally embraced. Some argued that it stifled creativity and forced teachers to focus on rote memorization rather than fostering critical thinking. Others worried about the impact on students from diverse backgrounds and learning styles. The Common Core became a lightning rod for criticism, but it also propelled Coleman into the national spotlight.
From Policy Wonk to College Board Kingpin
In 2012, the College Board, the organization responsible for administering the SAT and AP exams, was looking for a new leader. They needed someone with a vision, someone who could navigate the choppy waters of education reform and revitalize the venerable SAT. They found their man in David Coleman.
Coleman’s vision for the College Board was clear: He wanted to make the SAT more relevant to the Common Core standards, making it a more accurate predictor of college success. He also wanted to expand access to college for students from underrepresented backgrounds.
The SAT Makeover: A Controversial Transformation
Coleman’s arrival at the College Board ushered in a period of significant change. He spearheaded a complete redesign of the SAT, eliminating some of the more obscure vocabulary words and making the essay optional. He also introduced a new focus on critical reading skills and analytical writing.
The revamped SAT, launched in 2016, was met with mixed reviews. Some praised its alignment with the Common Core and its emphasis on real-world skills. Others criticized its focus on standardized testing and its potential to exacerbate existing inequalities in education.
The Price of Power: A Look at Coleman’s Compensation
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room. David Coleman’s compensation package. In FY 2020, Coleman pulled in over $2.56 million. That’s more than the combined salaries of many teachers in the United States. This hefty paycheck has sparked debate about the compensation of top executives in non-profit organizations, particularly those involved in education.
Some argue that Coleman’s salary is justified, given his impact on the College Board and his leadership in education reform. They point to his successful redesign of the SAT and his efforts to expand access to college. Others argue that his compensation is excessive, especially considering the financial struggles of many public schools and the growing inequality in education.
A Legacy in the Making: Coleman’s Impact on Education
David Coleman’s tenure at the College Board has been a period of significant change and debate. His legacy will be debated for years to come. He’s a man who has shaken up the world of standardized testing, who has pushed for educational reform, and who has become a lightning rod for criticism and praise alike.
Whether you love him, hate him, or somewhere in between, there’s no denying that David Coleman has left an indelible mark on the landscape of American education.
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