The Road to the Next Century

By Cindi Arthur

A solid public school system is the cornerstone of our community. It is the right of every student enrolled in our schools to expect that they will be successful. It is the school's job to insure that all students feel important and to provide them with the tools to be successful. Quality educational programs and opportunities, extra curricular activities, parental involvement and guidance, discipline, community, and business support are vital to a good public education. In order that our students realize the benefits of a public education they must also share in this responsibility by; possessing a positive attitude and a willingness to work hard and accept all that is offered and use it to reach their fullest potential.

Over the last several years public education has been scrutinzed and found lacking by those with their own agendas. The media is not always kind to public education. Many times initiatives have been put on the ballot that, if passed would directly effect public education as we know it. During these periods of "attack" the many supporters of public education have come together to successfully remove these obstacles.

The "team approach" is not a new concept. Sometimes we lose or forget a member of the TEAM. When that happens there is a break in the chain that holds us all together which can result in ineffectiveness, hostility or feeling devalued. Most agree that to be successful the chain must remain whole. In order for that to happen we must all be responsible for our own link. In order for our schools and our district to stay whole and remain competitive we must all communicate with each other. Important issues must have input from all groups; administration, teachers, parents, support staff and students. We must utilize our resources (PTA's booster groups, student groups, staff) to create positive public relations and effect positive outcomes. Parents and students must feel important and be partners in education. All staff must feel valued and financial compensation must remain competitive. Losing potential valuable teaching staff to South County districts that pay more and can offer cleaner more up to date facilities should not be an issue. Representation and input from members of business and other areas of the community must be sought when necessary and appropriate. We must have support and positive reporting from those in the news media. Public education is still alive and well and if we all work together will continue to remain the cornerstone of our community.