The cooperative spirit pays off in student performance. The family and school work together. With rules and schedules that dictate order, school becomes a familiar and comforting place. Sara Abraham quickly noticed the atmosphere when she arrived at Indian Springs from Marion in early spring to fill in during the principal's leave. Teachers set the tone.
Carpenter has a businesslike demeanor.
She crosses the room in quick, short steps, her eyes smiling and voice firm. On an April day, her students break into groups to practice reading, then begin writing assignments. Later, on schedule, math will begin. In each classroom at Indian Springs, lesson plans are posted near the chalkboard, allowing children to anticipate and pace their work. Carpenter, a teacher for 11 years, started at Indian Springs during the past school year, after working at two central-city Columbus schools.