Get Behind School Reform Plan; Williams' Ambitions for Buffalo Students Need Backing From Community to Work
Posted on: Friday, 10 March 2006, 09:00 CST
The three-year academic achievement plan Buffalo School Superintendent James A. Williams unveiled late last month comes with serious backing. Now the trick is execution and the financial support to make it work.
The plan focuses on reading and math and changing the curriculum. Included as part of his academic achievement plan and vision for the district: Extra help for struggling students; an alternative high school; ending social promotion; an emphasis on seventh- and eighth- grade math and English; a science and math school; more honors and advanced placement courses in all high schools; accelerated learning opportunities for high-achieving students, which involves an international baccalaureate program for the younger students; and a better sports program. And, even more hopeful, gaining the ability to work with teacher seniority and promotion.
It will take all of the above, and more, to turn around a struggling school district. The city's future as a place for families to locate is dependent upon a quality school system, which is why so much is riding on a turnaround plan. Williams, to his credit, is ambitious and it takes that fire in the belly by a leader to make things happen. His message of achieving educational excellence is clear and sincere, even though it is filtered by occasional tinny off notes that would normally put off a less-eager audience. But many city supporters feel the district is on the verge of positive change.
The superintendent has an aggressive plan, while embracing competition with charter and private schools. It's a strong message, fraught with funding and staffing challenges. Williams should take his message to heart as the public offers widespread support.
Source: Buffalo News
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