Renewal Schools

Could This Teacher and Leadership Program Be Part of the ‘Secret Sauce’ for Chicago Schools?
In most urban school districts, “turnaround” is a dirty word. Turnaround schools are first identified as failing and left to languish for some time in…

It’s Hard to See the Progress in Bill de Blasio’s School Reforms Because There’s Been None
In January 2013, just before Bill de Blasio was sworn in for his first term as New York City’s mayor, a reporter asked him what…

Can We Really Give a High School a ‘Fair’ Grade If Only 5% of Students Are Ready for College?
Many New York City parents are familiar with the “renewal school” program which, according to the Department of Education, represents a “call to action” to…
Are You Listening, DeBlasio and Cuomo? Here Are 3 Keys to Successful Community Schools
Earlier this month, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo gave his state of the state speech. With Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday following only days later, I couldn’t help but reflect on the lack of progress my city of New York has made towards ending social inequality, and narrowing long-standing achievement gaps. During his “I Have A Dream” speech, Dr. King Jr. envisioned a day where “little black boys and girls will be holding…