The Detroit Public School System is in a state of chaos. The emergency manager has concluded that 29 schools must close and that 98% of the high schools in Detroit are underperforming. As a Detroiter, I am saddened by this report but not surprised. It is interesting what US Education Secretary Arne Duncan said in the Associated Press,  “Detroit is ground zero for education reform.”

Mr. Duncan would like to see a major overhaul of the school system in Detroit. There was a suggestion that the mayor should take over the ailing school district. Although a worthwhile idea, what about making each parent with a child in the Detroit Public Schools get involved? This would include being present to volunteer, as well as  making attendance at parent teacher conferences and school board meetings.mandatory. It’s not enough to have a leadership change.  We need a change in mindset.

Along with the teachers, parents must be engaged in their children’s education. Our educators must take responsibility for getting positive results out of their classes. Under performing students should be given the extra attention so that they can catch up, which does not  just necessarily mean putting them in special education. The focus needs to be on a partnership between parents and teachers with the goal of educating the child for a successful future.

Until the day when this focus can be accomplished, nothing will change. People have to be ready to participate in the a real transformation in our school system. Otherwise, there will be no one to lead us in the 21^st century.

Author: Nicole Davis