Mary M. Hall-rayford

If Parents Cared Enough . . .: Johnny and Juaneshia Could Read Mary M. Hall-rayford

Everyone knows by now, or least thinks they know that a majority of students; especially inner city students fall short on standardized tests in most public schools. Media reports, as well as government entities, always infer that the fault of low-student-performance falls on the shoulders of the teachers. Really? Teachers have no control over the environment in which a child is raised. Teachers have no control over whether parents read or do not read to their children. Teachers have no control over district policies that do not add up to real school reform. Teachers have no control over legislators who care more about politics than educating children. So how is it that it is "always the teachers' fault that students do not perform well" Student performance in schools excel when parents are actively engaged-in creating and maintaining an environment that is conducive to learning, raising children who are respectful and responsible, getting involved in the business of learning in the schools, with the local school board, and in electing officials responsible for legislation regarding education.