Agenda - 11-10-1998 - Attachment #10

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Weaknesses: A number of weaknesses emerged from the public meetings and from the Task Force discussion. They have been collapsed into the following categories: • Under- achievement of African- American students: In. several different ways, concerns were expressed for students from low income families in the community, many of whom are African- American. Intolerance, racism, lower standards for these students and lack of parental involvement were high among the concerns identified. There are too few African- American students taking rigorous courses and participating in extra - curricular activities and too many dropping out of school after they turn sixteen. It is perceived that lower standards in terms of behavior and academic achievement exist for African- American students. • Lack of attention to students in the middle: There is a perception that the "average" student gets overlooked. • Inadequate attention to career planning for students entering the workforce after leaving high school • Overcrowding and large class sizes: It is feared that more of our schools will become overcrowded in the near future. Many class sizes are too large today: • Lack of respect and concerns about discipline and safety: Teachers are concerned about a growing lack of respect from students and an overall decline in discipline. Opportunities: The Triangle abounds with resources and opportunities that could lead to educational enhancements. Some of those identified by the Task Force include the following: • Large and talented volunteer pool including parents, retirees, and university students • Diversity of community including cultural offerings • University, business, non - profit, and community resources and partnerships • Partnerships with parents • Development of quality relationships between students and teachers • Recruitment, support, and retention of the best teachers • Empowerment of parents, staff, and students through site -based management • Access to technology • Collaboration with other school districts • Charter Schools Challenges and Threats: A considerable list of threats was developed. Keeping up with the demands caused by growth heads the list. Disparities between high and low income families, changing family structures, and a growing expectation for the schools to take on more responsibilities for children with seemingly growing personal needs ranked high among the perceived threats. A declining interest in teaching as a profession and an inability to reward adequately and retain teachers were also seen as major threats to our system. The most serious threats in priority order were as follows: • Facilities and resources not keeping pace with enrollment increases • Increasing disparity in resources between high and low socio - economic status families: Changes in family structure and economic pressures are making it more difficult for parents to become involved in children's education and to provide necessary support. • Inability to adequately reward and retain teachers and administrators. There is a declining interest in the teaching profession, especially among minorities, due to low salaries and teaching conditions • Low expectations set for some students • Decline in students' willingness to accept responsibility and be held accountable for their actions and decisions • Expectation by society that schools take on more and more responsibilities, some of which are beyond their control • Frequently changing directions and educational initiatives at the state level by the General Assembly and Department of Public Instruction • Charter schools, vouchers, tuition tax credits, privatization • Crime, drugs, gangs, loss of values in society