What a nice discussion...thoughtful, literate. Geez, the list is running the
danger of becoming one of them on-line magazines.
Having lived through these school debates for a long time, I've given up easy
answers. For anyone who would like to reflect on all the issues raised in
this thread, I recommend a very nice new book of essays : Reconstructing the
Common Good in Education: Coping with Intractable American Dilemmas, edited
by Larry Cuban and Dorothy Shipps.
A few comments.
---Be careful in making generalizations about the Minneapolis Public Schools.
Lake Harriet and Barton are comparable to Broadway and Bethune only in that
they draw from the same pot of money.
---What does <<public>> in public schools mean? Is there a public served by
the Minneapolis Public Schools?
---Don't confuse schools with education (or helping children to lead a good
life). Schools are only one tool. We ought to be talking about the larger
issue of how our city treats children, which would include the usual suspects
like parks, libraries and cultural institutions, plus others like child care,
juvenile justice, child protection, parental support and services...and a
look at how race, culture and subculture, poverty and privilege, shape kids.
The schools are of consequence to be sure, but with real limits. In some
ways, discussions like this divert attention from fundamental questions.
Curriculum fiddling and diversity won't help a kid who lives on the edge of
the world.
---Don't beat yourself up (or claim the moral high ground) for decisions
about choosing your children's school.
Love your kids.
Love as many kids as you can.
Love the kids who need it most.
Dennis Schapiro
Linden Hills
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