I am a city school district parent, and yes, it can be tough. You learn to be an advocate for your children, their peers, your school...The feeling of instability brought down by changing administrations at central office is tough. Placement office is tough to deal with. Not knowing year to year if your school's programs will remain in tact is tough. The pervasiveness of poverty, and it's effects, are heartbreaking. These are things that drive some to the suburbs, and I understand that. However, I also know that the amazing schools my sons attended, and now attend, have shaped them in ways a suburban school would not have - and I teach in a suburban school. They have a full spectrum, world class view of life, the world, and a group of peers that are diverse and amazing. They have been given wonderful opportunities, and are succeeding in ways I would have never imagined. Guess what "gotta say it"? In ANY district, you need to advocate and navigate! I for one, just want to say I am grateful. and grateful to read an article that for once focuses on the positives. As Daniel D. states, let's continue to build on the successes with more players on the field like Michael Lopez, and less negative "peanut gallery" critics. :)
Re: “Standing up for city schools”
I am a city school district parent, and yes, it can be tough. You learn to be an advocate for your children, their peers, your school...The feeling of instability brought down by changing administrations at central office is tough. Placement office is tough to deal with. Not knowing year to year if your school's programs will remain in tact is tough. The pervasiveness of poverty, and it's effects, are heartbreaking. These are things that drive some to the suburbs, and I understand that. However, I also know that the amazing schools my sons attended, and now attend, have shaped them in ways a suburban school would not have - and I teach in a suburban school. They have a full spectrum, world class view of life, the world, and a group of peers that are diverse and amazing. They have been given wonderful opportunities, and are succeeding in ways I would have never imagined. Guess what "gotta say it"? In ANY district, you need to advocate and navigate! I for one, just want to say I am grateful. and grateful to read an article that for once focuses on the positives. As Daniel D. states, let's continue to build on the successes with more players on the field like Michael Lopez, and less negative "peanut gallery" critics. :)