DPS must embrace array of options

It's big news when a Democratic African-American mayor of one of our nation's largest cities endorses charter schools and calls for more of them, so three cheers for Detroit's Kwame Kilpatrick!

DPS must regain its leadership role as the premier provider of educational options in Detroit by making certain we have access to a wide array of quality schools, including charter schools. DPS should view charter schools as a key component to its future success -- not a threat.

DPS must respond to the demands of parents for choice by dramatically expanding its portfolio of themed and innovative schools. Unless the DPS leadership believes the demand for new charter schools is going to dry up, it needs to take immediate steps to meet the need by becoming an active charter authorizer.

DPS must embrace array of options

District used to be a pioneer in innovation

May 29, 2007

BY KWAME KILPATRICK

http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070529/OPINION02/705290304/1068/OPINION

Imagine what would happen if Detroit's auto manufacturers decided to build and sell only mid-size sedans. Despite whatever media campaign they might mount to convince consumers a mid-size sedan was what they should buy, there would clearly still be buyers who would want to purchase SUVs or other types of vehicles. Worse, there would be lots of people whose needs would not be met by a mid-size sedan.