Community Corner
APS Long-Time Principals Asked to Step Down
On Friday, Atlanta Public Schools asked two long-time principals Mays High School's Dr. Tyronne Smith, and Grady High School's Dr. Vincent Murray to step down. They were told the reason was the district was going in another direction. It is believed that APS will rotate an additional 16 principals. As a community it is our role to ensure that decisions being made are the best for our children. Some questions to ponder:
1. Was this a data-driven decision? It should be the goal of this district to ensure that we are making choices that will improve student achievement.
2. Will the new principal be in place to have an opportunity to choose quality teaching and other leadership staff? If they are to improve our schools, they must be given autonomy to choose the best staff, so that when it is time to hold them accountable, it is legitimate.
3. When will the parents and the community be notified and how will they communicate the need for the changes? Although, the school district has the power to make personnel changes, we would like to make sure that the Local School Council and other parent leadership is working in partnership to make real improvements.
4. Should the old administration make choices that the new administration will have to live with? If we expect this administration to work until the last day, they have every right to make these changes. However if, our goal is to allow the new administration to move this system forward, would it have been a good idea to put a moratorium on high level decisions?
Whatever the case, the community should be informed, however we should not have to be consulted on all decisions! Voice your thoughts tonight at Mays H.S. All nine Board of Education Members will be in attendance, Reception 5:30-6:30, Meeting starts at 6:30. For more information contact 404-447-0637