A Cambridge schools report card

RECENT ARTICLES on Cambridge's superintendent (City & Region, July 14 and July 1) mischaracterized the situation. Criticisms of Dr. Thomas Fowler-Finn center on results, not personality. School districts rely on people; people skills matter. However, if we had stellar improvement, renewal of his contract would not be in doubt. State figures have confirmed Cambridge's achievement is below standard and, more troubling, the achievement gap has widened.

Dozens of Massachusetts high schools' MCAS scores improved much more than ours last year. Urban districts and schools nationwide achieve stellar results in a short time, by raising expectations and infusing students with excitement about learning. Like Cambridge, these schools and districts have resistant teachers, local political issues, and challenging family situations. None has $23,000 per student to spend .

Higher graduation rates are signs of progress, but not enough given our investment. Add to the lackluster results many effective staff feeling unappreciated -- sometimes enough so to leave. Top it off with special education concerns, many parents feeling dismissed, and declining enrollment as many nearby cities gain.

Cambridge Public Schools are an America's Cup boat, not an ocean liner -- small, high-end, supported by a phenomenal community. We should already be a model urban district.

PATTY NOLAN
Cambridge

The writer is a member of the Cambridge School Committee.