Monday, May 4, 2009
Now I know you are reading this blog!
A great big "Thank You" to those of you who knew that I would be mortified by the two typos in my previous blogs and you made sure I got the message to rush and correct them! I received an email from a principal and a call from a relative. I couldn't wait to get to the computer to take care of my mistakes! Please continue to be my eyes. I have often told teachers that any misspelled words and/or grammatical errors by educators aren't well tolerated by the public. After all, we are the ones grading the papers!!
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Rothchild Middle and Lonnie Jackson Academy
I visited both Rothchild Middle and Lonnie Jackson Academy last week. You must talk about these schools as one because they share a campus . . . and a kitchen with cafeterias on either side of the kitchen for the separate schools. Now, that is unique. I thought it was also unique that during the first few minutes that I was with Mr. Cox, Principal of Rothchild, and the first few minutes that I was with Mrs. Dowis, Principal of Lonnie Jackson, they both made the same statement, "We have some great kids here!" Before we can begin to educate any child, the leaders and teachers must believe in the ability of the students to learn at high levels and to respect them as learners. I felt that in both of these locations.
Both buildings are old and present challenges. Some things we can fix, such as the terrible erosion between the classroom wings at Rothchild and other things, such as the open corridors at Lonnie Jackson, with which we will have to continue to tolerate. In both cases, the principals and teachers were taking a "No Excuses" approach.
At Rothchild, Mr. Cox introduced me to a young man whose mother chooses for him to come to Rothchild. He gets up every morning and rides a city bus to get there and according to the Principal, rarely misses. I could tell by the conversation between the two that the principal and the student are far from strangers and that they have had many conversations about life and how the student can be successful. It was evident that the principal was counselor and mentor in that relationship and it didn't take long to see the respect between the two.
Even in the old building with its many challenges, I felt transformed as I walked into the media center at Lonnie Jackson. The media specialist had soft lighting, special reading spots, and it was an inviting and welcoming space for students. There was also a student restroom that the girls had transformed and had decorated with items they had brought from home. It was pink and prissy and the students showed alot of pride as they shared it with me.
The parents who send their children through the doors of these two schools can be assured that the faculty and staff care about their children, that the leadership is devoted to making a difference, and that there is an orderly environment for learning. Thanks for the tours, Rothchild and Lonnie Jackson!
Both buildings are old and present challenges. Some things we can fix, such as the terrible erosion between the classroom wings at Rothchild and other things, such as the open corridors at Lonnie Jackson, with which we will have to continue to tolerate. In both cases, the principals and teachers were taking a "No Excuses" approach.
At Rothchild, Mr. Cox introduced me to a young man whose mother chooses for him to come to Rothchild. He gets up every morning and rides a city bus to get there and according to the Principal, rarely misses. I could tell by the conversation between the two that the principal and the student are far from strangers and that they have had many conversations about life and how the student can be successful. It was evident that the principal was counselor and mentor in that relationship and it didn't take long to see the respect between the two.
Even in the old building with its many challenges, I felt transformed as I walked into the media center at Lonnie Jackson. The media specialist had soft lighting, special reading spots, and it was an inviting and welcoming space for students. There was also a student restroom that the girls had transformed and had decorated with items they had brought from home. It was pink and prissy and the students showed alot of pride as they shared it with me.
The parents who send their children through the doors of these two schools can be assured that the faculty and staff care about their children, that the leadership is devoted to making a difference, and that there is an orderly environment for learning. Thanks for the tours, Rothchild and Lonnie Jackson!
East Columbus Magnet Academy
Last week I had the opportunity to visit East Columbus Magnet Academy. What a great school! Walk with me through it!
When you walk in you are welcomed by a sign that affirms, "Yes, we made AYP!" As you walk down the halls there is student work - in the commons area, outside classrooms, and inside classrooms. The students are welcomed by a teacher and the principal who stand in the commons area greeting them. If there are dress code violations they are addressed in a non-threatening and affirming manner. You don't leave the commons and enter the academic halls until the shirt tail is tucked!
(On this particular day, a group of students were going on a field trip to the Columbus Tech Career Expo and they had been encouraged to dress in business attire. One young man was dressed in a suit and you may have seen him on the front page of the Columbus Enquirer driving a front-end loader - in the suit! I met this young man's mother who I understand visits the school regularly. Thanks, Mom!)
As Mr. Scott, the Principal, and I walked through the building the instructional day had begun. In every classroom in which we entered,the students were already engaged in the work, teachers teaching, and students working hard - and it was only 8:15 a.m! When I remarked to the principal that they were quick to get started, his reply was, "we don't have any time to waste."
I must tell you about an eighth grader with whom I was so impressed! As we entered the classroom, he was standing in front of the class. On the whiteboard tray were three paintings. They were gorgeous works of art which were suitable for framing and for hanging on any wall in the city! He was explaining to the class the inspiration for each of the works because, you see, he was the artist! The insight with which he talked about his work was mature beyond his years and by the way, this was not an art class, but art was being integrated into the curriculum! When I think about the proposed Fine Arts Academy, I know that it is this kind of young artist that would flourish in that environment.
Mr. Scott also shared with me a portfolio of dozens of pictures showing rooms full of parents who had come for workshops and seminars at the school. He said there is no problem in getting the parents to the school! I think that has something to do with his leadership! He also praised the teachers as we walked through and pointed out their individual strengths.
Mr. Scott told me his vision for East Columbus. He stated that he wanted the community to be so proud of this school that they wouldn't think of sending their children to any other school in the city. I think he is well on his way to seeing that dream come true.
Thank you, Mr. Scott, for your leadership and for the great work being done at East Columbus Magnet Academy!
When you walk in you are welcomed by a sign that affirms, "Yes, we made AYP!" As you walk down the halls there is student work - in the commons area, outside classrooms, and inside classrooms. The students are welcomed by a teacher and the principal who stand in the commons area greeting them. If there are dress code violations they are addressed in a non-threatening and affirming manner. You don't leave the commons and enter the academic halls until the shirt tail is tucked!
(On this particular day, a group of students were going on a field trip to the Columbus Tech Career Expo and they had been encouraged to dress in business attire. One young man was dressed in a suit and you may have seen him on the front page of the Columbus Enquirer driving a front-end loader - in the suit! I met this young man's mother who I understand visits the school regularly. Thanks, Mom!)
As Mr. Scott, the Principal, and I walked through the building the instructional day had begun. In every classroom in which we entered,the students were already engaged in the work, teachers teaching, and students working hard - and it was only 8:15 a.m! When I remarked to the principal that they were quick to get started, his reply was, "we don't have any time to waste."
I must tell you about an eighth grader with whom I was so impressed! As we entered the classroom, he was standing in front of the class. On the whiteboard tray were three paintings. They were gorgeous works of art which were suitable for framing and for hanging on any wall in the city! He was explaining to the class the inspiration for each of the works because, you see, he was the artist! The insight with which he talked about his work was mature beyond his years and by the way, this was not an art class, but art was being integrated into the curriculum! When I think about the proposed Fine Arts Academy, I know that it is this kind of young artist that would flourish in that environment.
Mr. Scott also shared with me a portfolio of dozens of pictures showing rooms full of parents who had come for workshops and seminars at the school. He said there is no problem in getting the parents to the school! I think that has something to do with his leadership! He also praised the teachers as we walked through and pointed out their individual strengths.
Mr. Scott told me his vision for East Columbus. He stated that he wanted the community to be so proud of this school that they wouldn't think of sending their children to any other school in the city. I think he is well on his way to seeing that dream come true.
Thank you, Mr. Scott, for your leadership and for the great work being done at East Columbus Magnet Academy!
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Emotional Evening at Hardaway!
I was so fortunate to attend Hardaway High School's Honors Night Program. As I heard the teachers comment on the accomplishments of the students I was so proud. The PTA President who is the Mama of a Senior was emotional as she talked about the end of the school year coming quickly toward us! I know how she feels! Then, teacher after teacher stood and talked about the students who were being honored. I think it is important to note that not only did they talk about the scholarly work of the students, but they talked about their good character, their pleasant demeanor, and the fact that these students were involved in so many activities! I was proud to see young people (and there was a cafeteria full of them!) being recognized for doing well! This scenario is not just a Hardaway phenomenon, but this scene is played out in public high schools all over our nation. Young people who are doing well, doing what they are supposed to do, staying out of trouble, excelling in school, and preparing for their futures are not in short demand in Columbus, Georgia or in other cities and counties throughout the United States! Many of these students will be successful adults - thanks to their parents and other family members, their own hard work, and the dedication and support of public schools! I am glad to be a part of it!
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Public Forums
Last night we completed the fifth public forum. The purpose of these meetings is to allow members of the public to express their opinions about the SPLOST. The comments have been great! Citizens have come to the forums, stood up in the public meetings, and expressed themselves articulately and passionately.
Yes, some have disagreed with the proposed list and have stated the reasons why. Some have supported the list and made that known. Some like everything on the list except one item.
Noone has come to say that they do not think the list reflects the need. Some have commented that there are more needs and they are right.
I am just so pleased that we live in a country where individuals can make their opinions known in a public meeting and know that they can make a difference in their communities.
We have four more forums to go.
America . . . what a great place!
Yes, some have disagreed with the proposed list and have stated the reasons why. Some have supported the list and made that known. Some like everything on the list except one item.
Noone has come to say that they do not think the list reflects the need. Some have commented that there are more needs and they are right.
I am just so pleased that we live in a country where individuals can make their opinions known in a public meeting and know that they can make a difference in their communities.
We have four more forums to go.
America . . . what a great place!
Thursday, April 16, 2009
CRCT Week!!!! and Young Professionals
During this week the students in grades 1-8 have been immersed in CRCT testing. Currently the test is dreaded by most, but, you know, we really need to look at it as an opportunity to show off the learning that has occurred during the year. I firmly believe that a single test does not measure the full growth of our students but it is an indicator. I visited Fort Middle School last week and you could tell by being in the building that they were focused - focused on achievement, focused on school pride, and focused on making AYP. This focus was evident by both students and faculty. Ms Coaxum, the principal, told me, "We can taste the success of making AYP!" I believe they will do it! If they don't make Adequate Yearly Progress they will be so disappointed and I am sure that if they do miss it, it will be by just a few students or few subgroups. Go Fort!
The Young Professionals from the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce had a great reception this week to welcome me to Columbus. By now, I feel as if I have been here forever, but it was such a kind gesture and gave me an opportunity to talk with them. They are a great group of young leaders and I know we will continue to hear their names around this city for a long time. The Northside High School Choir sang. Oh my! Their beautiful and trained voices in the great acoustics of the Chamber Building was a wonderful thing to hear. The choral director was so skilled and enthusiastic. Public schools offer our children such great benefits and music instruction such as this adds so much to the quality of life for the students! I can't say enough about the quality of the music they produced. Columbus, you should be proud!
The Young Professionals from the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce had a great reception this week to welcome me to Columbus. By now, I feel as if I have been here forever, but it was such a kind gesture and gave me an opportunity to talk with them. They are a great group of young leaders and I know we will continue to hear their names around this city for a long time. The Northside High School Choir sang. Oh my! Their beautiful and trained voices in the great acoustics of the Chamber Building was a wonderful thing to hear. The choral director was so skilled and enthusiastic. Public schools offer our children such great benefits and music instruction such as this adds so much to the quality of life for the students! I can't say enough about the quality of the music they produced. Columbus, you should be proud!
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Redistricting
You are right. There are some schools where there is space. We are expecting about 1000 of the students who will come here as a result of BRAC at the beginning of the 2011 school year with the other 3000 coming shortly thereafter. As those children come and we see where they live in the county, we will have to consider whether or not redistricting is the answer to fill some of those empty seats. We have to time the redistricting well or we will have students changing schools every year or so which is difficult on the children. Many fast growing school districts redistrict every year and changing schools has become a way of life. I would hate to redistrict one year and the very next year have to do it again. Redistricting is a solution we may have to consider at some point. That, however, is never an easy answer and creates a lot of emotion in the community.
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