In our hectic lives, it is not uncommon for us to ignore the challenges facing public education and distance ourselves from the solutions. As concerned citizens we have neglected our public schools far too long. The students, teachers and faculty deserve our attention, our resources and our support.
Last May, as part of the city’s ongoing school reform, the Chicago Public Schools instituted the first Principal for a Day program. With Mayor Richard M. Daley’s leadership, the event brought nearly 700 business and civic leaders into the schools to experience firsthand a typical day in city schools.
The inaugural event was an eye-opening experience that helped to change the point of view of many private-sector Chicagoans. On April 20 the second annual Principal for a Day hopes to build on the enormous success of last year’s program by fostering ongoing meaningful partnerships with students and faculty.
With many of the city’s leaders sending their children to private or suburban schools, they are not aware of the many hurdles the Chicago Public Schools must overcome. Principal for a Day places these professionals alongside our students and teachers to illustrate the importance of giving back to the schools as volunteers, not just financially.
The time has come for us, the city’s corporate and civic leaders, to take the initiative to assist our city’s students. We must provide them with the tools necessary to survive beyond their high school years. Our students will not succeed unless we give them the opportunity.
I applaud the efforts of Mayor Daley; Gery Chico, president, Chicago School Reform Board; and Paul Vallas, CEO, Chicago Public Schools, for their support and leadership in making Principal for a Day a success. But the future of the program, of our schools, of our children, is in your hands. On April 20 I urge you to join me as I head back to the classroom.
To participate in the Principal for a Day program or for more information, call Meghan Harte, Chicago Public Schools, 773-553-2150.
