In regards to the Bridgeport School system. I know it is a done deal but an individual such as Mr. Ramos, the former Superintendent of schools, as nice of a man he was, he failed. He failed miserably thousands of students that have come and gone over the past few years. It will be hard to tell how much damage has been done under his leadership. He should have been fired instead of resigning with a healthy package in an economy where individuals are loosing everything they have worked their whole life for.
That being said, it is a done deal. Reward for a job poorly done. Benefits for years while the average Bridgeporter learns to live without benefits for their family and children .Enough said on that .In the past 2 years I have been in nearly 24 schools as a sub. Lets not even discuss the insulting pay scale for a substitute in Bridgeport. Never mind the lack of benefits and the inability to initiate a claim for unemployment benefits .
Let's discuss the real issues as mine is a temporary one and a great learning experience. This afternoon on my way home from an assignment at Longfellow school, which btw is immaculate and orderly with great students, I drove by Harding High School. This is the real reason for this letter. Harding High School was identified as one of the worst performing high schools in the area. The Principal was let go and a group came in to revamp and wave the magic wand to help bring that school to a higher level.
You would think that with the high caliber of individuals coming into that school at a nice price there would be basic improvements like cleaning the garbage around the school.You would think that not only the former Superintendent , but the new principal and associate principals, students and families would have gone on a team building expedition to increase pride in the school and neighborhood. The entire property lining Central Avenue around their otherwise beautiful athletic field is completely littered and fenced in with garbage for the entire stretch of the school.
This is a disgrace. This not only sets the tone for the students but also shows the lack of self esteem of the school teachers and students, parents and neighbors surrounding the school. I do not blame the Mayor but would question the local council members of that district.
Setting the tone of the school would be the first step in improving conditions at Harding. Getting the community and students involved would improve not only neighborhood relations but teach the students about team building and improve their social skills. The students and teachers deserve to work in an environment that is clean . The neighbors should not have to look at garbage 7 days a week every week year after year. That garbage lining Central Avenue on the Harding School; property is just plain unacceptable and yes it does affect on a subconcious level anyone interested in developing any part of that neighborhood. In just a short while the General Electric property could be just one development affected by this.
I would suggest , for the sake of our students, teachers and neighborhoods that this school address this opportunity to make a huge impact in the neighborhood .Partner up with a Home Depot. plants gardens and improve the quality of life for all of the residents and students.
There are many problems with our schools that need to be addressed. The school system in Bridgeport is key to our future economic development. Cleaning the garbage and improving self esteem is a quick fix. just do it and get it done.
