Independence: A Recommendation for School Reform

As we celebrate Independence Day, many school districts are bringing on new leaders who have plans and ambitions for improving the education opportunities for students in their communities.  The Superintendent’s job is a tough one – demanding the skill of a diplomat, savvy of a politician, management ability of a CEO, leadership of a general, and, of course, the education expertise and knowledge of a professor.  Did I mention the judgment to call off school for snow days?

The new Superintendent of the Boston Public Schools, Dr. Tommy Chang, is probably under the sharpest microscope of all his new colleagues as he takes the helm of our largest district and capitol city.  MBAE joins others in wishing him well and offering support for the important work he has ahead.  He is fortunate that his predecessor John McDonough, made some bold decisions in the best interests of students that brought about long-overdue changes. Dr. Chang can also can rely on great educators and leaders in Boston who can support him – starting with Chief of Staff Ross Wilson.

Superintendent Chang has been meeting with stakeholders across the district, listening to their concerns and receiving lots of advice.  We hope he will heed the suggestions that former legislator and Education Committee Co-Chair Marty Walz offered in The Boston Globe Opinion page.  This is the time for bold leadership!  MBAE’s blueprint for the future, The New Opportunity to Lead, explains why we cannot be complacent and need to make the changes that Walz recommends to bring funds and decisions closer to students through greater school autonomy.

Like the Patriots who led our nation from monarchy to democracy, Superintendents have to balance the traditions we cherish against old practices that may be comfortable but need to be jettisoned for new approaches that better reflect the desires and needs of our citizens and students.  Success requires our Superintendents to demonstrate the courage and commitment to realize the dream of our country’s founders – liberty and equality.  Fighting for the cause of high quality education for all students is essential to prepare the citizens our country needs to survive and grow as a democratic society.  Happy July 4th!