Ann Fradkin-Hayslip Ed.D.

Much has been written about educational reform in Finland; its rising and most recent decline of PISA rankings. Since 2000, Finland has ranked in the top tiers of reading, mathematics, and science literacy. Do international scores adequately define the worth of an educational system, or do other factors more realistically offer an unbiased view? The PISA scores from 2000 to 2022, have consistently beat out its counterpart, the United States, but first, let us step back several decades to trace how this tiny country propelled its name into the news and became a focus for educators around the globe.

Attendee Results:

• Identify patterns of PISA scores from 2000 to 2022.
• Examine John Kotter’s steps for Leading Change.
• Compare and contrast school philosophy and curricular frameworks of Finland and the U.S.
• Compare and contrast teacher preparation programs in Finland and the U.S.
• Develop action plans to bring harmony and excellence into the classroom.