When my husband and I moved back to Rochester in 2000 with the intention of sending our son, then 2, to the city school around the corner, many of our friends and relatives didn't hide the fact that they thought we were crazy. Although I am a passionate supporter of public schools, and of city schools in particular, I – perhaps like you – often put myself through a wringer of doubts and second-guessing. Am I sacrificing my children's education for some abstract ideal? Then I look at my two children, now 1st and 4th graders at School #46. They are happy, smart, and thriving. They are challenged and enriched.
There are times I get tired or discouraged and the problems of the city schools seem overwhelming. At those times, I have been sustained by other parents and families treading the same path, those with older students succeeding in city high schools, or whose children have graduated from city schools and gone on to challenging college programs and fulfilling careers. Their simple reassurances that a city school education can work have made an enormous difference for me. And so I conceived of this site as a place for city parents to congregate and share our stories.
My intent is not to twist arms, nor to disparage anyone who chooses not to send their child to city schools. Every child and family has different needs. My goal is to create a place where those of us who are on this journey together can find encouragement and support, and where parents who may be considering city schools, and perhaps feeling pressure in the opposite direction, can find information and assurance that they will not be alone. I hope, through this forum and whatever develops from it, to create stronger community of city school parents so that we can inspire and strengthen each other.
Please spread the word to your friends and fellow city school parents – as well as parents you know who may be considering city schools, or young people weighing whether or not to stay in the city.
My heartfelt thanks to everyone who encouraged me on this project, and to Lori and Elizabeth for jumping in to help with enthusiasm and high energy. Special thanks to Anna, who is clever enough to time her highs with my lows, and vice versa, and to my husband, who has given me infinite technical and emotional support.
Come on in to the forum and introduce yourself – I’m thrilled that you're here!
Warmly,
Hilary Appelman |
