To the Editor:
This is a recap of recent education events:
I begin with the opening of school. The administration asked the teachers “to applaud themselves” because students surpassed New Jersey standardized test standards; Seniors were accepted to the most prestigious colleges in the world; Graduates earned millions in scholarships; an impressive increase in AP Scholars; and 100 percent of the Class of 2013 met the HSPA guidelines. Were these students directed by remote control?
Then, there was the “March of 2013” to City Hall. It was quiet, respectful, and large! The marchers were educators enduring a four-year salary freeze, higher gas/water/electric bills, ever- increasing rent/property tax, and the rising cost of food/clothing/shelter. The effort was rewarded with empty platitudes in the next day’s newspaper. Is this the right approach to dedicated individuals?
Later came the “Academies” presentation for parents. It outlined the wonderfully and impressive preliminary success. I, however, wished more time was devoted to the extraordinary efforts of the teachers in developing the curriculum. Was the purpose of the tour to empty classrooms to illustrate the use of “discovered” tax money?
Finally, the recent BOE meeting resulted in silence! For all of the above, I guess the panel was elsewhere. Unlike the past TV show, “ST. Elsewhere,” this is not a dream, unfortunately. Or did I miss something?
CHARLES NUZIALE
Guidance Counselor