Since I am currently "in the market" for a school, I need to weigh in with
my two cents. That's probably what many on this list think it's worth
anyway ;-) , but here goes, ready if you wish...
I have been pleasantly surprised by the quality of the Minneapolis schools I
am looking at, regardless of size. Although I tend to like a little smaller
school, I believe those that are really successful have a clear
understanding of their mission and creative leadership. For instance, I had
discounted one school completely after last year, but gave it a second
chance since they had a new principal. I found their new principal to be
dedicated, smart, creative and vibrant. (The only principal to send me a
thank you card by the way.) She clearly understood their mission and she
knew what she had to do to get it done. She also knew what they did well,
really well. She had also obviously inspired her staff. When people say a
program/school has gotten too big and isn't working any more, I'd want to
look at their leadership and their mission to make sure it has been adjusted
appropriately. So, I'll vote for a good leadership team and a clear mission
any day. And a smaller school wouldn't be bad either. And the small school
I'm talking about does have a gym and an adequate library and music
facility.
Secondly, I have to be honest. I am tired of trying to solve our social
problems by using our schools. They have enough to do by teaching our
children. If we really want to affect change in double working heads of
households then we should support living wages. You know, at the level when
it took only one head of household to support a family. And for those
people who are single parents, they need more help than just keeping their
kids at school longer. That solution is a disservice to both parent and
child. And let's quit talking about subsidizing daycare or after school
care. We made the sacrifice in my family to have one of us stay at home and
we don't get any subsidy for that choice. Others could do it too if they
gave up a few precious amenities. I know there are people who need help, but
until we understand that we can only create community if there are people in
the community we will continue to fail at this game. Social engineering
through our schools is destined to fail. However, that doesn't mean we
shouldn't serve the educational needs of all children. Which also means
challenging those children who are ahead of the game. It's one area we
could significantly improve upon.
Thirdly, I've notice a significant disinterest in parents working with their
schools. At my daughter's preschool less than half of the parents turned
out for parent orientation. There is nothing, and I mean nothing more
important than your child. And the more successful schools I've visited
have significant parent involvement. Part of this solution might be
economic/wage support and part might just be educating parents on parenting.
It might even mean having parents sign a contract with the school. I'm sure
that will raise a few eyebrows.
Finally, as for boot camp in 10th grade. My four year old already knows how
to make her bed and get some of her own food ready. If I waited until 10th
grade to do that, she'd never get a head in this world. By 10th grade I'll
expect her to be ready for E.E. Cummings, Aristotle, Relativity, Analytical
Mathematics, and Democracy. We should have that expectation for all our
children.
As an aside, does anybody know if you don't have a guaranteed community
school if you are guaranteed your first choice option then?
Russell W. Peterson
Ward 9
Standish
Minneapolis Public School Area Number 46
R U S S E L L P E T E R S O N D E S I G N
"You can only fly if you stretch your wings."
Russell W. Peterson, RA, CID
Founder
3857 23rd Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55407
612-724-2331
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
