The ACI reports to the School Board. It reviews the reports and recommendations of each Advisory Committee and forwards them to the Board with its comments and votes on the recommendations. The Advisory Committees provide a continuous, systematic review of the instructional program in each area and may also recommend the introduction of new programs. Much of the school year is dedicated to ACI review of Advisory Committee interests. At the last meeting of the 2000-2001 year, the Council discussed proposed policies on use of copyrighted materials, remediation, full school day, and homework before final vote on these issues by the School Board.
Discussions are lively.
Not only are ideas and reactions expressed, but we leave each meeting knowing more. The members, almost entirely, are parents of students in the Arlington schools. All work collectively toward the best education possible for their children. I was struck by the excellence of the Advisory Committee's reports and recommendations. This opportunity for citizen input is a valuable protection for Arlington's future leaders.