Whenever I have a problem, I like to consult an expert. For medical issues, I check with a doctor. Legal issues go through lawyers. Even when dressing for the day, I pay attention to a meteorologist.
New Bedford Public Schools, like other large urban districts, has its share of educational issues, and these issues must be addressed by those who truly understand the needs of students.
My advice to you is to consult and work with the experts, the teachers and administrators. As well-intentioned as politicians might be, they are not the ones with undergraduate and graduate degrees in the field. They are not the ones in the classroom. They are not the ones dealing face to face with the issues every single day. These politicians are not limited to the mayor, School Committee and City Council. You also have to include the Education Roundtable, UIA and DESE. When you play in politics, you are a politician.
Another Gateway City was facing similar issues not too long ago. Brockton has seen its graduation rate and test scores climb while its dropout rate decreases. This was done largely by the efforts of the educators in the high school who wanted to see change. No teacher enters this field wanting to see their students fail.
None of the articles about New Bedford Public Schools talk about working with the teachers to address the issues. If anything, more efforts should be made to reach out to these professionals, listen to them and allow them to be the leaders in the solution.
Let the experts fix the problem.
Christopher Saulnier
Acushnet
MTA Board of Directors District 40E
(New Bedford, Acushnet, Dartmouth)
1 comment:
I love this letter. Thank you Chris Saulnier for being the voice of reason among the din of know it alls.
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