I’ve notice the audible hush by our concerned citizen bloggers with regard to the NATIONAL conversation about the “Waiting For Superman” documentary released two weeks ago in New York and California and coming our way in the next week or so. This hit the media like a rash – yet nothing from our most concerned?
It amazes me how, and that, our citizenry can focus on all that is wrong with ‘our’ schools and then tap out on conversations that discuss possible solutions. It really is DISINGENUOUS!
We are so busy looking for transparency, which by definition means YOU CAN’T SEE IT – Go figure! We are missing the window of opportunity for “WE” “US” to be a part of generating viable options.
The fact that Barack Obama Academy is doing very well; that “THIS” Board has been quick to respond to parent issues i.e. overcrowded classrooms, that we are vetting information with regard to staffing and staffing options and making informed decisions based on facts and necessity and not favoritism and popularity. And how about the fact that our meetings are starting on time and are ending at a reasonable hour. Where’s the hubbub about these things?
And before you responders start telling me what I signed up for...just know I'm talking about what's being talked about. I'm not complaining about the WORK but rather the RHETORIC!
Any way -- as the world turns -- we here in Plainfield can ignore the flight of Superman if we want to, but people and Boards all over this country are “teeing” it up and working on a call to action.
Here’s an interesting quote from former Parents for Public Schools (PPS) Executive Director Kelly Butler - -made 15 years ago:
“The spirit of public school reform must be adopted by the whole community if it is to make a difference. We will continue “at risk” as long as public schools are abandoned by the very constituencies they need to survive. These grassroots activists – parents and others – are essential to reversing erosion, promoting excellence, and demanding equity.
How long must the wake-up call echo before it is heeded by the citizenry as a whole? In towns all across America, persistent criticism, massive flight and despair – especially by the middle class – continue to drain our public schools and our urban centers of important energy, resources, and diversity. How long before we agree that equity in education (i.e., good public schools for everyone) is the solution to most of our ills. And how long before community-minded individuals, not just public school parents, begin to own this problem?”
During the CUBE conference the documentary and our current state of Urban Schools was discussed intently throughout the three days.
Do You know who this is?
Here’s a closer look..
What wisdom came forth from this gentleman.
He is none other than Dr. Pedro Antonio Noguera; professor in the Steinhardt School of Education at New York University. He brought the current state of our schools up close and personal.
His ideas and ideals in combination with the dynamic philosophies of Principal Baruti Kafele, and the bold, brash leadership like that of the Baltimore City Schools and School Board are fine examples of a turnaround situation lead by ordinary people with extraordinary resolve to be a part of the solution!
It's time for us to be our own Lois Lane and start telling the FULL STORY, but in order to do that YOU MUST be involved!
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