Last night I listened to the superintendent of schools detail ugly financial news.
Over recent years I've heard way too much about how urban schools fail and how we must focus laser-like on test scores and graduation rates. I've heard the superintendent have to call in to MPR to explain to CFL commissioner Jax that Minneapolis schools serve kids of similar background as well as suburban or rural districts.
Amid the defending and dreading, you can lose track of how wonderful things can be.
I just got back from South High's student production of The Laramie Project, the exploration of the Matthew Shepard murder originally created for HBO by a troupe of actors.
Seeing this moving production, with fine behind-the-scenes work and the actors with such skill and wisdom, heart and craft, I am struck with how much we have to appreciate and protect in our city's schools. It was just a terrific evening of theater, powerful stuff that makes you proud of not only what these young people have become, but the moral courage they show. Who wouldn't want a kid to be in a school that nurtures this?
Lots of seats in the auditorium. Well worth your time.
One more night. Tomorrow.
Dennis Schapiro
Linden Hills
Minneapolis Board of Education
