Bring some substance to our Vallejo schools debate

How sad that The Rev. Dante Quick, Pastor of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, did not raise the flag by writing an equally passionate and ominous message when the state decided to close down Hogan High School.

It seems these smart people are just sitting on the fence, waiting for the right moment to blast away and be known as crusaders for their flock. The only point of interest in what he said was the lack of attention given to him due to his religious background. Well, I think you're right Rev. Quick.

When it comes to excellence in education , there is only one culture to consider- the culture and resulting climate in the school environment that allows every student the opportunity to learn in safety and a culture that invites students to develop his/her full potential. That should be the guiding, uncompromising goal of any district strategic plan for educational change.

As a former school board President, former teacher and with an educational background in administrative leadership (M. Ed) I can say without any doubt in my mind that it is possible to create that school culture...and it has nothing to do with race or a "black" problem.

It starts at the top, with a Board that has the courage and ability to articulate a strategic plan for change that specifically addresses the conditions required to create that school culture.

That plan is put into operation by a district staff that understands effective pedagogical approaches and that has an ability to enlist the many professional talents and that can interact with the community at large.

In other words, it starts with a clear vision, and transformed into an action plan that involves all in reaching those plan goals.

And that takes transformational leadership and courage. The current school board doesn't appear to get it. The current Superintendent does not get it nor has the ability to take a more humanistic approach.

So, while I agree with some points the Reverand makes, the key remains with a school board willing and able to come forward with a comprehensive plan for educational change.

Push the Boad for a new Stregic Plan, then ensure the Board hires key personnel who understand the concept of transformational leadership. A first step.