I like both of these ideas because I think they address two of the core difficulties of minority achievement: income and role models. As parents in the Columbus Schools debate the inequities of magnet schools, charter schools, and who gets money for what, it’s easy to forget the underlying causes of low achievement.
Columbus Schools students raised in poverty are unlikely to have well-educated role models who can teach them what successful behavior looks like. Low income parents are usually less able to spend time in their children’s Columbus Schools, less able to help with homework, and less aware of the impact of reading. If the Columbus Schools are serious about helping minority students rise above their current situation, then the realities must be addressed.
The National Society of Black Engineers sponsors junior chapters in Columbus Schools middle schools that are intended to increase student’s interest in math and science. But the power of this type of program for low-income minority students goes way beyond an introduction to these subjects. For a Columbus Schools student who has grown up in the projects to realize that someone from that same background can lead a different type of life can be a revelation. Columbus Schools students, minorities or white, need to see people they can relate to in successful positions.
In fact, some successful Columbus Schools high school students are now mentoring middle school students. I find this so exciting. This is exactly the type of activity that will give low-income students the drive and hope to rise above their current station in life.
The other transformation in the Columbus Schools is the shift from large high schools to smaller schools with 500 students or less. One of the best parts about this is the potential for teachers and parents to create a learning community. Smaller Columbus Schools have higher attendance, lower drop-out rates, and less teen crime and pregnancy. A large reason for this is the more familiar environment between students, teachers and parents. One of the problems that have gone unaddressed in inner-city Columbus Schools for too long is the discomfort that low-income parents often feel in the academic world. Columbus Schools that reach out to parents, and offer parent education, are the ones most likely to propel their minority and low-income students to excellence.
More Post
New Medicines Available To Treat Rare Diseases
Music now we learn also on-line
Give A Heart Necklace This Holiday
Cure your Baldness & Alopecia the Natural Way (Chinese Herbs)
Teach Courses Online
Facts About Spirulina- Worlds Most Powerful Food
School Fundraiser Niche - Valentines Day
Hair Loss: Cosmetic Solutions For Good Cover Up
Dating Blindly
Sun Tanning Protects The Skin
Thay Call It "Dog Breath" For A Reason
Using Magnets To Fight The Pain
A Note From Saint Valentine - A First Person Tale Of This Wonderful Day
Spitting Up – And Other Joys Of Motherhood
Las Vegas: How to Ensure Your Vacation is Full of Adventure and Kicks
Is Self-Esteem Contrary to Christianity
What Educational Toys Do Kids Actually Enjoy Playing With?
MLM Success | Relationships in Two Minutes Flat
Are vent free gas fireplaces safe?
Domestic Violence Dr Jekyll or Mr Hyde