The message was clear from signs, T-shirts and posters all around Centennial Olympic Park: It's been a tough summer for Atlanta Public Schools, but as the school year approaches there's a need for parents, educators and community members to "Support the Good."
With that in mind, about 300 people attended a Thursday night rally hosted by the Atlanta Council of PTAs. Participants listened to teachers, parents, city leaders and school board members who tried to shed some positive light on a district that’s attracted mostly negative attention in recent months.
Nearly 180 educators confessed to or were accused of cheating on state standardized tests, according to a state investigation released last month. As a result, many of the district's top administrative staff has been removed, and about 130 educators who didn't retire or resign face termination from the district. All could lose their teaching certification, and some may face criminal charges.
Catherina Middlebrooks, who daughter attends South Atlanta High School, said she came to the rally because she believes there are many schools and teachers doing a good job. She also wants her daughter and others to be excited about school in hopes they will be motivated to follow through and graduate.
“Atlanta Public Schools is a good school district, and we don’t want people taking out their kids,” she said. “We need to stay and support our schools.”
Speakers highlighted the long-term positive gains in test scores, even in recent years as state monitors have stepped in to ensure tests were not compromised. Twenty-one Atlanta Public Schools students have been awarded 2011 Gates Millennium Scholarships -- one of the highest numbers of any school district in the nation.
District-wide teacher of the year Belita Hamilton called on parents and others to help the district rebuild trust.
“The relationship of trust has been damaged,” she said. “We need your help in rebuilding trust with all our parents, students and community members. We will earn your trust by fixing the problem and eliminating risks that can impact impressionable minds.”
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