[Mpls] Doug Grow's Mythology

[Michael Atherton]

Steve Cross wrote:

> I simply don't get it. 

That much is clear.  I've been trying to expound on
issues that are relevant to the MPS's 47% dropout
rate.  I've tried to make clear that there are institutional
polices within the MPS that differentially impact
minorities.  I've also tried to suggest policies that
the MPS could implement that might be effective.  I've
insinuated that it is the responsibility of White parents to 
support policy changes that insure that all students have equal
opportunities for success.  I've claimed that substantial
improvements are within the capabilities of the District
and have been implemented by other schools.  I've
claimed that these improvements will succeed regardless
of the effects of low income.  I also stated that culture
IS a relevant factor. This would be a no-brainer if not
for the need to maintain adherence to contemporary political
mythology and liberal values.  For the MPS to ultimately be 
successful in reducing the dropout rate, they have to adjust 
solutions to accommodate culture (that's a fundamental principle 
of multiculturalism).  Is it so radical to acknowledge
that different cultures have placed differing emphases
on the value of education?  Tribal cultures have
traditionally place more value on honor and bravery
than formal education.  So?  So it's important to understand
this in formulating educational policy and programs. 
(The word, "tribal" does not imply much about Black culture, 
which is distinctly an American "sub" culture, but does imply 
something about Native Americans.) 

The problem is that Mr. Cross and others will try to use
this to discredit my position to maintain the status quo.  
I happen to think that it is critical that these issues 
be openly discussed and not trashed because they are not 
politically in vogue.  How do you think it is that we've 
come to accept a 47% dropout rate?  By limiting discussion. 
People, this is a big problem! Not just from the stand point
of social justice, because if you don't think that our city 
crime and murder rates are related to this issue you're in 
for a surprise. And unless we face up to it rationally, it's 
not going to go away.

So go ahead and suspend me.  I have other work to do anyway.
Sometimes difficult things have to be said, regardless
of polite convention. Think of it as civil disobedience.

Michael Atherton
Prospect Park