The teachers' union was holding a reception in a room right next door, but the philosophy on parent participation was worlds apart. It's hard to keep the attention of children when parents are coming in unannounced. Teachers also say it's much harder to teach children who come to school with so many emotional and behavioral problems. One out of four children in the city lives in a neighborhood with inadequate housing, rampant crime, and high unemployment. That's why there's so much burnout.
Poor attendance is another problem beyond their control, teachers say.
Sophomore Shywan Putman explains why she failed two courses last year. American history was last, and I never felt like going. My biggest challenge is motivating them to see the value of education. Yet, as in every troubled urban district, some schools excel. One standout is Newton D. Baker Elementary School, whose students scored among the highest in the district on the state proficiency tests.