I'm a parent with two children in CPS. One in CES, and one in the preschool program at CHS. For the past few years, I have heard all the negative comments about CPS and watched many people school choice their kids to other schools. I couldn't help but wonder if there was an alternative.
My husband and I like Clinton. We see the flaws, but we also see the good things about Clinton. We also see the problems in the school, but I want to work to try and make things better. That's how this blog started.
When I first posted, I didn't really have a direction, but as time has gone by it has become clear that you are all craving better commuication from the schools. There are other issues as well, but I think the cornerstone to everything is communication.
With this in mind, I am trying my best to help bridge this gap. I have met with the Superintendent, and I have been in contact with him regarding your issues. And while this system isn't perfect, it's a start and I'm trying to build it from there.
My next step is to be voted into School Council. I'm submitting my paperwork, so we'll see what happens.
I enjoy posting on this blog and reading your comments. Keep them coming, and I will keep posting.
- Carrie McFarland
Carrie I think you efforts are to be respected.
ReplyDeleteHowever note the responses from many on this page, sounds like your job is a big one and not sure if you will get the end result you want. Until administration gets their head out of the sand and really hears you and others on this page, chances don't look good. Parents play a big role in a childs life, and the schools also, but Clinton Schools need money to improve and if the schools do not hear that they must involve everyone in the town with better communication and knowledge, they will never get the needed funding. You can communicate all day with the parents of the students in the schools, but the ones who carry a big vote number in this town are senior citizens.
I agree it's an up-hill battle. But if we don't try, then we'll definitely fail.
DeleteThis blog is still in it's infancy. I have no idea in what direction it will point us.
Time will tell. And I'm not willing to give up yet.
Carrie, Best of luck, I wish you success !
ReplyDeleteHang in there.....don't give up :)
ReplyDeleteSo what should the average citizen of Clinton do to make a change at the school so that scores improve and class size decreases? I feel lost and helpless and volunteering in the classroom doesn't feel like it helps.
ReplyDeleteHonestly, I think the best thing we can do is just keep repeating ourselves. Keep saying over and over what we want from the schools. Call, e-mail, visit the superintendent. Call the schools and ask questions when something doesn't make sense, or needs to be addressed. Contact the School Committee with questions.
DeleteI still hold to the theory that if enough of us do this over and over again, they'll have to pay attention.
I think most of us feel the same way, but only a few of us say something about it. So unfortunately our concerns are tossed aside because not enough people are speaking up.
That's what I'm hoping to start with this blog. It's going to be slow, but we have to keep at it.