D112 Middle School Plan is 'Well-Grounded': Letter

This letter was written and submitted by Daniel Schwartz.

I am a 28-year veteran educator and school administrator and a long-time resident of Highland Park whose children are proud alumnae of District 112. I have come to understand the need for a referendum to reorganize our schools. After closely examining the plan endorsed by the D112, I strongly support it and believe it will well serve our children and community.

It is clear that the reorganization recommendation from the School Board reflects deep thought and consideration. The key factors facing the district include aging buildings, too many schools to achieve high quality child-centered education and economies of scale, and growing operating expenses. This situation is not unique to HP, and the Board’s proposed solution is educationally sound and well accepted.

From 1994-2010 I served as Principal of Washburne Middle School in Winnetka. In 1998, after significant study, Winnetka adopted a K-4, 5/6-7/8 two-building middle school model. I was the first Principal of the 7/8 building. To help the 950 students of the new middle campus feel known, cared for, and challenged intellectually, we established teacher teams, comprised of two-teachers at the 5/6 building and four teachers at the 7/8 building. In addition, each team-teacher served as an advisor for students’ social-emotional development. This team model created a “school home” for each student, while simultaneously allowing them to mix with other students in their elective and PE classes. Glencoe and Wilmette have also adapted 5/6 7/8 middle school models. In Winnetka, Glencoe, and Wilmette the 5/6 7/8 model provided an opportunity to expand curricular offerings, increase academic subjects and levels, and foster a deep sense of community within both teams and school.

The middle school plan for D112 is well-grounded in academic and practitioner based research.

Indeed, the following national professional education associations each support middle level education and models similar to that proposed in D112: National Association of Elementary School Principals, National Association of Secondary School Principals, Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, and Association for Middle Level Education. A successful referendum will provide our children with an up-to-date facility, reflective of cutting edge research, and ensure significant upgrades for all six of the newly renovated elementary schools.

Our schools need to focus on the hearts, hands, and minds of every student, well preparing them for the world ahead. Vote YES to support the referendum and help our District become the best it can be, now and in the future.

Daniel Schwartz

Highland Park