Forty years ago, the Cleveland public schools stood as a pinnacle of education.
Once again, the Cleveland Municipal School District has been placed on “academic watch” by the state board of education as evidenced by the annual report card passed out to public school districts throughout Ohio.
This is sad news for a district that was ranked as “continuous improvement” last year.
To be sure, the state’s ranking doesn’t tell the whole story about the predominately Black school district.
It doesn’t tell us attendance increased and, at 62.8 percent, graduation rates saw all time high since 1995.
It doesn’t tell us African American students are showing the most improvement.
It doesn’t tell us the district set five records in reading and math.
And, it doesn’t tell us 22 percent of the districts’ school achieved a rating of “B” or above
It does, however, provide a peak at where the district needs to go if it is to become effective. For example, Hispanic students – especially with language barriers – are struggling.
Much work is needed to be done.
Forty years ago, the Cleveland public schools stood as a pinnacle of education.
Classes during the 1960’s routinely turned out graduation rates in the high 90’s. College bound students of that era went on to become doctors, lawyers, engineers, teachers and other professional endeavors.
But, now, those classes are ready for retirement in many cases. Black baby boomers are joining their White counterparts in enjoying the fruits of their labors.
Today’s students and their families need to take a page out of the “old school” pupils.
The CMSD can’t do it alone.
The state report card shows that all too well. In the end, it all boils down to parents and guardians who respect education and respect for the education process.
