Executive Elite School Reading Response

     The argument being made is that teachers in this particular school encourage students to figure out the problems before the teachers 'teach' them how to do it and to think critically and apply what they have learned. By letting the students figure of a way of solving the problem first, it lets the teacher know which path the students understand better to ensure that the children understand. The teachers encourage the students to "agree or disagree" with the answers their classmates have found. It's clear that the teacher encourages the students to voice their opinions and answers. The teachers encourage the knowledge and application of concepts instead of memory. The teachers put into the children's heads the idea that they are "in control". The 'no bell' rule encouraged the students to be there on time or even earlier and gave them a bit of self guidance. The free reign that the children had over the school in a sense made it seem like the children controlled the school.
     I believe the author argued her point well because she included many examples of how the school encouraged children to think for themselves and also encouraged the fact that the children are responsible for their own success. It's hard to tell what the author thinks of this type of schooling because she is simply just stating facts and not her opinions, but if I had to guess, I would say she encourages the independence of the children in the school. I'm curious as to how the students stay so uniform and disciplined for 5th graders. 
     I agree with the author and think this method of schooling is a positive thing and should be practiced everywhere it can. Does this teaching method make every student more independent and willing to work?

During class they did not have to sign out or ask permission to leave the room; they just got up and left. Because

of the pressure to get work done, however, they did not leave the room very often.

     This line stuck out to me because it's showing how disciplined and well-bahaved the students have become. The kids have gotten to where they want to finish their work so they realize that the work won't get done unless they do it. I think more elementary schools should practice independence.