But they have also discovered reason for hope. Willie, a Harvard professor and educational consultant, will finish his report in late March - about the same time Charleston County voters will decide whether to OK the bond referendum. Critics say the timing is awkward. They are afraid Willie's report will distract from the campaign to fix up the buildings, that it might create confusion. Willie, who was hired by private citizens to analyze local public schools, thinks the timing is appropriate.
People are already focused on schools because of the bond referendum.
It makes sense for them to consider educational opportunities at the same time they're considering buildings. Some insights His report won't come without bad news. For instance, a majority of students in two-thirds of our schools score below national test norms. Some schools have unacceptably high suspension rates. The way students are assigned to schools simply isn't working.