| abstract | - Pittsburgh hasn't waited for the arrival of Superman Recently, A+ Schools, United Way and The Pittsburgh Promise co-sponsored a screening of the film "Waiting for Superman," the controversial documentary film about the state of public education in America. Following the film, attendees engaged in an open and honest discussion about what we can do here in Pittsburgh to make certain that our schools improve the life prospects of all of our children. Mark Roosevelt, superintendent of Pittsburgh Public Schools, and John Tarka, president of the Pittsburgh Federation of Teachers, led an audience that included an amazing cross-section of teachers, administrators, parents, charter school leaders, school board members, foundation heads and community volunteers. Before the film started, Mr. Roosevelt and Mr. Tarka set a simple philosophy for the gathering -- you may disagree with many of the oversimplifications and oversights in the film, but let's not waste our time debating the pros and cons. The underlying truth is that we have a problem in this nation in terms of the need and speed of education reform. Whatever you may think of this movie, it is clear that we can solve the very real problems that exist in urban education only when rational adults join together to take constructive action toward resolution of the problems. In Pittsburgh, we are taking a different approach to education reform by working collaboratively with our teachers to give them the tools they need to ensure that all of our children have a real chance for a better future. Unlike the film, Pittsburgh does not need to wish for the mythical strength of a comic book hero. We have in place the far more powerful strength that comes from the collective will and determination of people who are dedicated to improving the future for our children. By working together, we will achieve our shared goal of excellence for all. THERESA COLAIZZI President Pittsburgh Board of Public EducationOakland Read more:
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