Kiyah: Spirit of Action
Teenagers know more than we think. Every once in awhile I’ll pick up a journal from when I was fourteen or fifteen and read what I had to say about the world. I often surprise myself. I read some insights I had after struggling with a class or getting into an argument with a friend, and I think, wait a minute. I knew that then? I thought I just learned that… Read More
NAACP Opinion Changes on Charter Schools
The NAACP is calling on charter schools to reform, not necessarily shut down. After hearings in seven cities, including New Orleans, the NAACP wants charter schools to be more accountable and transparent. “We insist [upon] a system, not hodgepodges of opportunity, but a comprehensive system for all children.” Read more here
Issues with LEAP
The Louisiana Scholarship Program, designed for low-income students to attend participating private schools, experienced some issues with LEAP test scores being low after the first year. Parents and students still value the program and see the value in working hard to overcome obstacles. “Despite the low LEAP scores, 94% of parents say they are satisfied or very satisfied with the scholarship program.” Read more here
10 Steps for Success
Want to know how to help your child have a successful school year? Academic Coach, Cherry Smith has tips and pointers to aid you in becoming a parent to academic stars. “I’m a problem solver.” Read more here
Putting the classroom first
By Tanzi West Barbour I remember when I didn’t have children but my friends did, they would complain about being asked to donate school supplies for the classroom. They didn’t understand why teachers just simply didn’t have “enough.” A number of my friends refused to comply with the request. And the teachers and classrooms went without. I didn’t understand what the big deal was then and eleven years later, as a mother… Read More
Shawn’s Voice: Will Her Freshman Disappointments turn into Her Sophomore Hopes?
“So, how did you do in school Tete; did you pass?” “I don’t know.” “Well, what did you have on your final report card?” “A’s and B’s.” “I’m sure you passed with those grades Tete, are you ready for the 4th grade?” “Yes.” “What about you two Gabriel and Taylor?” “Yes we passed, and we’re ready for summer!” “And you Shawn?” “I passed, and I did ok in school. I had… Read More
Sylvanie Williams College Prep in Trouble
Sylvanie Williams College Prep may lose its contract based on a strong possibility that it will receive an F on the state report card. In order for the contract to be renewed, the school would have needed to earn a C grade. “Any closure or takeover would not happen until next summer. The Board of Elementary and Secondary Education usually votes on charter renewal in December.” Read more here
Graduation Rates Going Higher
Louisiana schools have a mandated graduation rate mark of 80%. Despite missing the ultimate mark, graduation rates are rising due to specific plans to continue increasing the graduation rate. “[What] we are trying to do is increase the graduation rate and increase the standards. That makes a difference.” Read more here
Three Years Later, No Significant Performance Improvements? What Can We Learn from the State’s Voucher Program
If you’re like most parents, you simply want the best for your child(ren). And whatever it takes to attain it, you are likely willing to do. For a parent whose child(ren) attends a public school in New Orleans, making the decision (or allowing the city’s centralized enrollment process One-App to make it for you) on which school your child attends can be as nerve-wrecking as it is empowering; but either way,… Read More
A stronger voice of the People by getting back to the basics
Each and every day we can scroll timelines, visit social media sites or peruse the internet and find a myriad of stories about charter schools. You don’t have to look far to find the good, the bad or the ugly. My recent experiences have taught me parents really don’t have the time, resources or information to make an informed decision on whether their child should attend a charter or traditional school;… Read More