Editorial
A fresh start for Seattle schools

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IT'S time for those who care about Seattle's future to get past the bitterness and finger-pointing of the last year and look ahead to a time when all of the city's children — regardless of race or zip code — have access to a top-notch public education.

The past two years will be forever linked with the district's $35 million budget fiasco and the embarrassing, unsuccessful search for a new superintendent. The November election that ousted three incumbent School Board members revealed widespread frustration with the district and agreement about one thing: the need for change.

Unfortunately, there seems to be little agreement about how to make that change positive.

That's too bad. Improving all of the city's schools is certainly a formidable task. But there's actually considerable research on what it takes to make schools work.

There's nothing flashy about the solutions. Good leadership, high expectations for all students, curricula that align with tough standards, professional development for teachers and a shared focus are among the most important factors. Good communication between adults and parental involvement in schools are also essential components.

Dozens of schools around the country use these ingredients to improve student achievement. Their success should serve as a reminder that better schools are within reach.

The wide gap between the city's white and minority students is unacceptable. The consequences of allowing so many students to leave school without basic skills cannot be overstated.

Superintendent Raj Manhas, School Board members and citizens have a duty to the children of Seattle to keep their eyes on the end goal of improving schools and not get bogged down in the distraction of the day.

The district's capital and operating levies will go on the ballot in February. It will take the support of an entire community — united behind its children — to ensure the city's future looks better than its present.

Copyright © 2003 The Seattle Times Company