Tell the world what's right with America's public school system


By MARTIN G. PETERSEN
Last Updated: April 4, 2005, 01:35:00 PM PDT

"Public Education - Lighting the Way for America's Future" is the theme for Public Schools Month in April. As I reflected on that theme, I thought about the current dialog on public education taking place throughout the nation. Most of it centers on funding, standards and test scores. Important issues? Absolutely! But perhaps even more important is the fundamental issue at the heart of the debate -- the value of public education.

I believe public education is the backbone of our democracy and provides the basic building blocks of our communities. Public schools educate our children, contribute to a qualified work force and help to create active, knowledgeable citizens.

Is the system perfect? No. Are we making improvements? Yes! I'm convinced that public education is the best investment we can make in our country.

I once heard a speaker say, "Everything America is, or ever hopes to be, depends upon what happens to the millions of students in public school classrooms."

This cheerleader for public education, Forrest J. "Frosty" Troy, went on to say, "Every autumn, the miracle of America takes place when the doors (of our public schools) are thrown open, welcoming the genius and slow learner, rich and poor, average and developmentally disabled. Among them are the loved and unloved, the washed and unwashed."

And who is there to greet this mass of humanity that passes through our doors? They're all around you -- the dedicated school bus driver, who travels miles each day to deliver his/her precious cargo; the custodian, who makes sure the school is clean and safe; the principal, who's on the front line; and the teacher eager to meet the next mayor, the next surgeon, the next astronaut she/he will teach this year.

As we celebrate Public Schools Month, I challenge you to create a new dialogue on public education -- a dialogue of appreciation. The Stanislaus County Office of Education has teamed up with The Bee and KAT Country radio to encourage greater appreciation for our public school system in America. There are several ways you can get involved.

First, I challenge you to think back on your school days and the impact educators made in your life. Was there a teacher or coach who challenged you to reach heights you never dreamed possible? Or perhaps a school secretary who listened to you when times were tough at home? Maybe it was the bus driver who knew your name and greeted you with a smile each morning. The Bee is inviting you to share your story. (Thank a teacher today!)

As I thought back to my school years, Mrs. Hansen, my first grade teacher in Billings, Mont., came to mind immediately. I can still see her standing by my side at the chalkboard, patiently helping me to write my numbers -- over and over and over again. The most important lesson I learned from her was that it was OK if I didn't do everything correctly the first, second or even the third time.

That lesson stuck with me all my life. As I look back on 44 years in public education, I realize I have probably learned life's greatest lessons on my second and third tries.

I also challenge you to appreciate those who dedicate themselves to educating the 105,000 school children every day here in Stanislaus County. It only takes a moment to say "thank you," and we've made it easy for you to reach almost any educator in the county. Your notes of appreciation will send a powerful message of support throughout this community.

I truly believe public education is a gift we should nurture and cherish, and that it depends on public support and involvement to be most effective. Please consider joining us in the dialogue of appreciation this month.

Petersen is Stanislaus County superintendent of schools.
http://www.modbee.com/opinion/community/st...-11060336c.html