There are moments when it is beneficial for me to step outside of the public education realm to carefully consider the idea that public education is an investment rather than an expense.  This perspective may be a direct result of what has been a lengthy but successful budget season for Danville Public Schools. As... Read More

As you are well aware, the challenges of working in public education are not becoming any easier.  In fact, I am first to acknowledge that there is always a desire to improve our work and optimize our success.  Our staff, especially our teachers, continue to give more and more time toward the demands placed upon... Read More

We are living in an era of increasing demands and diminishing resources for public schools.  In cities where there is an unwillingness to invest in public schools, the likelihood of overcoming the challenges related to economic development, creating a viable work force, improving neighborhood quality of life, reducing crime, and improving health, are nearly impossible. ... Read More

In 2012-2013, all Danville Public Schools were Fully Accredited based on Virginia’s Accountability and Accreditation System.  School accreditation ratings reflect student achievement on SOL tests and other approved assessments in English, history/social science, mathematics and science.  Elementary and middle schools are Fully Accredited if students achieve all of the following pass rates: English — 75... Read More

As I continue to contemplate the significance of Virginia’s Accountability and Accreditation System, I am compelled to consider the knowledge and skills a high school graduate should possess.  My perspective is based on my own observations as a highly seasoned school leader.  While I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to study extensively as... Read More

Are Danville students learning?  Last time, I provided a brief historical overview of Virginia’s Accountability and Accreditation System in an effort to help our readers understand the “hubbub” around school accreditation.  My goal ultimately, is to inform the public about what it all means.  The Virginia Board of Education revised the Standard of Accreditation in... Read More

Understanding school accreditation — accountability can be both confusing and daunting to many who are trying to understand how school performance is rated.  Most of us simply want to know if our schools are succeeding and how to measure progress.  The terms “accreditation” and “accountability” are often used interchangeably to describe school performance, but the... Read More