Mecklenburg's efforts to promote all schools and their needs. Gohlke and other district administrators should make an extra effort to elicit the religious community's help, as well. And clergy should make an extra effort to respond. A recent letter writer to The Dispatch described a poorly attended meeting run by the district for area members of the clergy. The district should try again.
People are hungry to be partners in improving the city's schools.
An effective mechanism is needed to bring them together. And a welcoming atmosphere originating from the school board is equally important. If fear and suspicions prevent some district leaders from accepting help they should schedule a community forum where rumors can be squelched and common concerns expressed and addressed. Communities in Schools-Columbus, which coordinates social services for city students and their families, also could help. Any lasting progress in Columbus Public Schools will come not only because of proven curricula, equitable distribution of resources and families equipped to nurture academic success.