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May 6, 2005
By Staff reporter
Delaware business leaders were the first to voice concern about decline in public education. More than a decade ago, the Business Roundtable and the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce's Public Policy Institute issued a series of reports on public schools and ways to reform the system. They were sharply critical. At first, educators were resentful, but they eventually saw it as tough love.
Today, there has been significant progress. Delaware public schools have high standards in math, writing and reading, though standards in other subjects have yet to be completed. Professional development of teachers and principals remains an unfulfilled goal. There is accountability for students and administrators, but not yet for teachers.
Business people have driven much of the reform effort, and taken some heavy blows for its commitment. Often they are perceived to be oblivious to the good that happens in public schools.
But that's not so. The annual Superstars in Education program run by the State Chamber proves business is ready to praise as well. This week, more than 500 people attended a dinner honoring the state's six Superstars and 12 runners-up.
The winning programs represent best practices that can be shared with other schools. They are:
Richardson Park Learning Center and Charter School of Wilmington's partnership; Polytech High School's ninth-grade transition program; Indian River School District's learning improvement plan at the middle school level; Warner Elementary School's daily computer instruction for all fifth- graders; the John R. Downes Elementary School for its social studies/arts program that helps students appreciate history in general and their own personal history; and a Lake Forest district assessment of after-school and summer programs.
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