Christian
Education
Outreach USA

Given the test scores in many school districts it is time to think outside of the box. An African proverb says," It takes a village to raise a child". Parents, educators, medical professionals along with the corporate intra structure hold the key to improving our nation's school systems.

A country which is known for its' vast real estate holdings and powerful corporate business enterprises have the resources to make a difference in the education of its' youth. The greatest investment that a people can make is in the lives of children for youth are a nations most precious resource.

The public school system deserves the support of all concerned citizens because all students cannot afford to attend private schools. It is time to come together as a nation to assist our public schools to become the best that they can become.

Public schools need to take a close look at the University system which recruits some of the best and the brightest minds to teach students on the University level. They are able to do so because Educational foundations provide funding to supplement personnel salaries. It would be great if our local communities could establish effective educational foundations to enhance the public school system.

Foundation monies would not replace a systems financial support system. It would simply allow a system to have more financial flexibility. Ideally foundation funds would be used to:

1. Increase teacher supplements for the purpose of recruiting the best available teachers
2. Provide funds for critical need teachers in mathematics and language art etc. The time has come to recruit and pay higher salaries to certain critical need teachers, the best teachers will not relocate unless they are properly compensated.
3. Provide funds for expanded tutoring programs which would include comprehensive after school study halls
   
4. Establish parental support systems which would assist parents who desire help in the education of their children
5. Assist in the reduction of classroom size which tends to increase instructional efficiency
6. Provide funds for more efficient character education programs which stress classroom discipline

If an educational foundation is established End of Grade Test Scores would continue to be the primary evaluation tool of both students and teachers. When teachers are adequately compensated expectations of both students and teachers are raised.

The preceding ideals are not unique they are simply food for thought. The citizens of this country need to work with the school system to find solutions in raising student test scores.

This is an appeal to those in America who are in positions of power such as doctors, lawyers, teachers, preachers, auto and real estate entrepreneurs, media personnel and concerned citizens to form a task force for the purpose of finding ways to more effectively involve the community in the education of our children. The education of our youth is worthy of, money, time and effort.

Whether it is fair or not a country is judged on the educational performance of its' youth. Our students can perform better, it is the time for concerned citizens to step up to plate and take action toward leveling the educational playing field. The rules are in place. The challenge is to find ways to more effectively perform within the no child left behind guidelines.

Reverend Micheal J. Darby