Poor performing schools are mostly inner city schools. Yes, they have some weak teachers that are there only because of tenure. But, to me, they are not the total problem. Inner city Public schools face so many social, econmic, racial, drug (parent and student) and other problems that adversely affects the schools performance. Getting rid of a few teachers will help but will not solve the problems.
For what ever reason, our Federal and State governments have decided that many social programs are to be executed in public schools. These programs are all detractors to just educating. But, for example, are we not going to have free or reduced price breakfast or lunch, when these may be the only meals some of the kids get. There are a host of programs that are public school detractors.
Perhaps the biggest problem in many public schools, not just inner city schools, is the lack of parent envolvement. Put Johnny and Jane on the bus and forget about them. No breakfast, not dressed in acceptable attire, or for the weather, no involvement in doing, helping or checking of homework, and a whole list of other problems. When we can do something to improve a large segment of society, then perhaps we can see improve in our schools.
I do not mind nor am I jealous if carrying parents want to send their kids to private schools. But do not rob the public treasury, and do not claim an even playing field in sports. Now the same can be said of suburban schools. No way can KCKS compete with Blue Valley--in quality of teacher, class offerings or facilities. Acouple of years ago Sumner played I think it was Blue Valley West in a FB playoff game. Sumner showed up with 30++ players and three coaches. Sumner practices on a grassless, rocky field--they have no home field--home games are played at Wyndotte or Wasington. BVW suited probably 100 players, at least 10 to 12 coaches, and the field was state of the art artificial turf. Who won? Certainly not Sumner. Our kids were not disappointed--they were glad they had made it that far and got to play. Was it fair. Not even an issue. But, I do not think BVW was a repeater the following year--as many private schools are.
