We also need to negotiate a good contract with Sylvan. I think one reason it works is that because so many parents pay big money and look at the overall results of the center, Sylvan must perform and make sure all students are moving ahead.

In Oakland we do have a policy of social promotion, grade inflation and a general belief that self-esteem is the most important thing in school. If our city accounting department could not balance the books, but worked well together and felt great about our city would that be enough? If our Park and Recreation department kept students safe, but spent only half of the time for a basketball camp on skills and team play, but the Park and Rec staff felt good about safety, would that be enough?

We need to understand that in the working world, where these students will end up if they are not in jail, they will be expected to perform a job. If they arrive late, they will not be employed. And, if our economy continues to struggle there will not be a safety net while they figure it all out.