It was interesting to read Doug Mann's recounting of his experiences with the Minneapolis schools. It provides some historical background for his passionate opposition to the system. I don't think anyone should be comforted when any parent has the sorts of experiences he describes.
Some questions: 1. What standard of "revenue challenged" applies in this statement: <<Special School District #1 is among the least revenue challenged school districts in the state of Minnesota.>> Is it merely dollars or some ratio of need to funding...or something else? 2. As a person in line to take a seat on the board, I noted this statement: <<A lot of money has been misappropriated.>> Foolishly appropriated is an issue for voters. Misappropriated is an issue for the attorney general. There was a major problem with special education funding a few years ago. Is that the reference here, or is there something that is no going on? Documentation is important. This seems to be a serious legal allegation. 3. Mr. Mann frequently cites research that, in my experience, is less definitive than he implies. Again, I'm open to other info, but what research is he citing to support this: <<Research shows that spending money on teachers gives you better results.>> And because it is and has been a far more attainable goal to hire aides and assistants of the racial and ethnic groups of MPS students, would he hew to that position should it lead to a professional staff that is less reflective of our students' racial and ethnic background? (Sorry, "we can do both" is acceptable in great policy debates, but doesn't wash for what happens next week.) 4. Mr. Mann has raised another issue that merits discussion: <<I have proposed measures to reduce the high concentration of inexperienced teachers in community schools that serve poor neighborhoods.>> I'm not sure the sole selection factor should be experience, although it should be in the mix. But a discussion about how we make sure our schools serving poor kids are staffed with competent, committed, healthy teachers ought to be a high priority for all of us. I hope that issue gets a good deal of attention from the board and community during my term. Dennis Schapiro Linden Hills School board member-elect _______________________________________ Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, Unsubscribe, Digest option, and more: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
