The Summit Republican Committee Hosts Education Forum

Chairwoman Lisa Allen, on behalf of The Summit City Republican Committee, hosted an informal discussion with concerned citizens and Dr. Joseph Ricca, Superintendent and member of Governor Christie's Anti-Bullying Task Force.  The event was open to everyone and was well attended.  

Dr. Ricca spoke about a host of problems endemic in our educational system, some of which can be addressed by government, and others that lie in the purview of communities and families.

Long a sore point for suburban communities, tax dollars pouring into Abbott Districts at the expense of the suburbs, with little effect was a major issue discussed.  Dr. Ricca stressed that these are the most needy areas, but just throwing dollars at them will never work on its own.  Family and community support are many times lacking in in those districts, which are critical to the education mission.  Dr. Ricca brought up Harlem's center for educational excellence that could serve as a model for communities in places like Newark, Paterson, Camden, Jersey City and similar cities.  Dr. Ricca also talked about administrative reforms to direct more money to the classrooms.

Another major issue in New Jersey's education system has long been the lack of accountability for teachers based on largely objective student success measures, as well as virtually universal tenure.  Dr. Ricca spoke about the Governor's reforms in this area based on the new "PARCC's" system for holding teacher's accountable for the success of all students.  The Partnership for Assessment for Readiness for College and Career" tests students quarterly and measures their individual and collective improvement over the course of the school year.  If a teacher fails to measure up two years in a row, they can lose or be denied tenure.

Dr. Ricca spoke about the business communities in school districts becoming supportive of, and involved with schools as well.

Another topic of discussion was bullying.  In the Facebook era, there are many more ways that are being employed to bully in schools.  Systematic emotional bullying and the enlistment of groups of people to bully are far more prevelant these days than just the physical bullying that took place years ago.  After significant study, The Mayor's Task Force on Bullying has recommended, and had implemented, mandatory steps that have to be taken to investigate bullying claims by school children and pursue remedies for those situations.

There are many educational issues confronting New Jerseyans, and there are no uniform solutions that will address the varied issues of our school districts.  However, Governor Christie, Dr. Ricca and others are taking steps with community members to move the reform process forward to ensure more uniform and effective education in New Jersey.

Watch for other community oriented events to be sponsored by The Summit Republican City Committee and attend!  It is a wonderful opportunity to have your voice heard on issues that matter to you!