As my feelings about the inauguration of the 44th President fills my heart with unspeakable joy, excitement for the future, and pride, the realism of the economy, wars, health care, and education crisis interrupts my thoughts. I say a silent prayer for divine guidance and protection over Barack Obama’s new presidency.
After spending more than 19 years in the public school system in Alabama’s Huntsville City Schools, I have very strong opinions as to the direction education must take to be successful. For too long administration after administration have come and gone with new programs and agendas. I believe it is time to change the way federal and state governments mandate the future of our crippled systems.
First, it is not enough to hold administrators and teachers accountable for student learning and achievement. We must hold parents, students, and the entire community accountable and responsible for the success of our schools. Parents must educate themselves as to what they should expect from their child’s school and their child’s personal achievement. They must become an active positive partner in their child’s education.
Next, teachers must receive professional development and be willing to make changes for the success of every child. If a teacher is not willing to make the necessary commitment for change they need to find a new profession. There should be monetary incentives for strong, positive, experienced teachers and administrators to go to intercity schools to help inspire and train the teachers in the trenches. These teachers should be selected for their innovative practices and results. They could sign for 3 to 10 year terms. This practice would inspire and keep fresh blood and ideas in the most needed schools.
Our political leaders need to listen to the people who are in the trenches (administrators, teachers, and parents), everyday and know what to do to change the course of education in their system. No one knows better what needs to be done then the administrators, teachers, and parents. I also believe that there should be schools of choice. The schools that are not serving our children well should no longer exist and magnet schools and charter schools should replace them.
Finally, there must be a commitment on the parents to make education a priority. I have watched parents guide their children into educational success. I have also watched parents watch from the outside, hoping their children are getting the education they deserve. It takes turning off the TV and computer games and opening up their school books committed to doing their absolute best. This is why I wrote, How to Get the Best Education Possible for Your Child K-6: A Parent’s Handbook. This book will help parents make an intelligent decision about what school your child should attend and the steps to take that will help your child find success in school.
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