We Need to Help the Atlanta Board of Education Put Children First

Dear Cascade Patch,

I want to stay connected with you about the Atlanta Public Schools and other issues facing our community.

The following is an excerpt from "Representative Ralph Long's Plan to Help the Atlanta Board of Education Put Children First," in my July 6, 2011, District 61 newsletter:

• Because of legislation that was passed by the General Assembly in 2003, before I was elected to office, the Superintendant of APS has complete autonomy over our school system. She does not have to answer to the elected board of education or any other community stakeholders.

• It does not have to be this way. The legislation changing the governance of APS was irresponsible and directly contributed to the culture of corruption at the highest level of our schools.  Mayor Reed was wrong to sponsor this legislation when he was in the State Senate. I am a product of Atlanta Public Schools and never would have allowed any one person to completely control our public schools without a system of checks and balances.

• Instead of demanding Dr. Hall's immediate resignation last year, the people who are supposed to lead the City of Atlanta spent the past several months engaging in a political catfight over which Board of Education Member sits in the Chairman's seat.  Beverly Hall was allowed to serve out her full term, receiving her full salary and benefits, because our local leaders and the Chamber of Commerce care more about the perception of student achievement than the reality.

For the full statement and to contact my office, please visit  www.Ralphlongiii.com.

—Georgia State Rep. Ralph Long, District 61
Call me directly (770) 616-213018