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But What About the Children? Why Revitalizing Cities Starts with Our Children and Youth

When asked what contributes to the success of a city, many will point to sustainable economic development, strong local government, multi-modal transportation options, investment in technology, and quality public education. Of those, nothing sparks more debate than how to improve public education.

 

As economic and racial inequality continues to increase in cities across United States, the quality of public education is affected. Because schools are funded primarily by property taxes, the schools in wealthy communities can invest in technology, improve infrastructure, and offer more services and resources  ensuring better achievement and graduation rates. Meanwhile, schools in poor communities often cannot make these investments and usually struggle just to meet the basic needs of students who don't fare as well academically or emotionally as their wealthier peers. While many cities - including Cleveland - are undergoing an economic transformation, the benefits are not shared by all.

 

Gloria Ladson-Billings, Ph.D., Professor Emerita and former Kellner Family Distinguished Chair in Urban Education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the President of the National Academy of Education,  is considered a founding expert in the field of culturally relevant pedagogy.

Gloria Ladson-Billings, Ph.D.

Professor Emerita and former Kellner Family Chair in Urban Education, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Dennis Allen

Executive Director, Greater Cleveland Schools Superintendents' Association

Dan Moulthrop

CEO, The City of Cleveland

Natalia Garcia is a digital producer for the education team at Ideastream Public Media.