We asked North Carolinians why they believe that public schools are the heart of our community. Here’s what parents, teachers, taxpayers, community leaders and others have to say:
“Public schools are the heart of our community because they are all about the children; and they are about ALL children—black, white, yellow and brown; rich, poor, and in between; bright and challenged; abled and disabled. Public schools are the greenhouse that takes seeds parents have planted and nurtures them with teachers who care about their academic and social growth. These seeds are children that will one day be responsible for our community—its health and well-being. Public schools play a critical role in the life cycle of our communities and as public schools flourish, society as a whole prospers.”
Adrienne Kelly-Lumpkin
Parent of a public school student and public education activist
“Public schools are the heart of our community because they pump the lifeblood of learning to all the extremities of our societal body.”
James E. Ford
North Carolina Teacher of the Year
www.jameseford.net
“Public schools facilitate relationship building between teachers and students that is unique. My teaching experiences in colleges, universities, and private schools were much different in that the selection process for students eliminated much of the diversity found in public schools. The relationships were much less rewarding for me in schools without open enrollment admission policies. My greatest working joys have come from teaching in public schools, making them essential for our communities and me. “
Chip Stone
Lifetime educator: college professor, researcher. entrepreneur, hospital administrator and public school science teacher.
“Public schools are the heart of the community because they are the nexus that ties everyone in the community together. Everyone knows either a child who attends or an adult who works in public schools; people attend school sporting events, plays, and concerts. Public schools are the vital organ that make democracy possible, and we must everything we can to keep them and our country productive and healthy.”
Monica DuPree Wilkerson
English Department Chair, Leesville Road HS, Wake County
“I live in an area where the film industry and tourism gain a lot of attention, bring in significant revenue, and important in my community. If asked what the heart of our community is, I believe that most people would answer “public schools”. In my community parents, students, teachers, and citizens take pride in our public schools. School spirit transcends into the community through athletic events, holiday parades, fundraisers, and support for one another. We understand that in order to contribute positively and productively we must be a public school system and not a system of schools. This principle creates a healthy attitude and encourages schools to partner in creative ways whether it be through professional development for teachers or donations for students in need. We take pride in our community and understand the power of unity. When you listen closely you will hear the strong heart beat of public schools in my community. ”
Jenny Leeds
Teacher, New Hanover County Public Schools