Re: Question regarding moving

Posted by Phil on October 15, 2003 at 09:34:32:

In Reply to: Question regarding moving posted by Elizabeth on October 14, 2003 at 19:16:50:

I understand the importance of good schools. I've been lucky in that I've always gone to good ones - but as usual, I have a theory about this too:

Good students can thrive anywhere - even in bad schools. A kid with a good support system at home can excel despite going to schools that are horribly underfunded, conditions are deplorable, teachers are clueless, and fellow students are borderline criminals. It's really up to the parent(s).

I think that your girls will do just fine even if they go to this not-so-great school - so long as when they get home you are willing/able to supplement their education.

I want to toss in a little food for thought. I think this is a great opportunity to make this school better by becoming involved in it. Join the PTA, organize fundraising events, do what you can to make this one, single school stand out in the district. I believe that it takes just one caring parent to get the cart rolling. And once it starts rolling, when success happens, other parents will probably jump on board and help it go further.

Maybe I'm just dreaming, but I believe that nothing happens coincidentally. Maybe you are having this dilemma for a reason. Taking the easy path by bugging out of the bad school district will no-doubt benefit your children - but it likely won't do much good for anyone else either. However, taking this more difficult path where you may have to step in and work hard, will ultimately benefit a lot more than just your kids.

And can you imagine your sense of accomplishment knowing that in some way you contributed to the success of a large group of kids? Though they may not voice it, I know your girls would be VERY proud of you.

I say stay. But I will also say that the other posters are right - your girls probably won't even notice the change, or at least it won't be important to them. It'll affect you and your husband more than it will affect them.

Sleep on it, and go with your heart.

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