Believe in the future of public schools
This week, schools across the country celebrate and recognize American Education Week. As principal of Glenbard West High School here in Glen Ellyn, I would like to acknowledge educators for their commitment and contributions to our youth.
Public schools cast their nets wide to bring in students of varied backgrounds and experiences and move them toward the common goal of realized potential. As a result, our high school provides rich learning experiences both inside and outside of the classroom. At Glenbard West, students engage in an academically challenging community rich in diversity and emphatically supportive. I am immensely proud of our teachers, counselors and administrators, who maintain a laser focus on student achievement and well-being.
Lately, we have seen school districts come under attack. At times, negative assumptions are made regarding the intentions of teachers and staff. While community feedback remains essential, it can be disheartening to witness this continual onslaught of negativity. I encourage people to think broadly about the purpose of public education. We look to build citizens who can think critically, engage and collaborate and welcome our country's diversity. Let's face it; the future will have no shortage of challenges and conflicts.
The students of Glenbard West provide us with an excellent model of what we should strive for in human development. Like so many young people, they are overwhelmingly positive and hopeful. Furthermore, our numbers bear out their success: 97 percent of our students graduate in four years, nearly 90 percent of them move on to college. Over 80 percent of students at West will take at least one advanced placement course during high school and just about 80 percent of our students will be engaged in a sport or activity. A heartfelt thanks goes out to our families and communities who continue to support the efforts of our schools and believe in the future of education. Go West!
Dr. Peter Monaghan, Principal
Glenbard West High School