In the old days, if somebody wanted to fix their car or plant a garden and needed to educate themselves better on the topic, they might read a book, enroll in a course, or talk to somebody knowledgeable. Now we have better ways to learn. Observe:

Fewer than 50% of African-American students in Asheville City Schools are “proficient.” Kids continue to drop out like flies. To address the problems, the school system accepted a $474,000 Homeland Security Grant. The administration also drafted a Strategic Operating Plan for the next five years with the following goals:

  • Asheville City Schools will produce globally competitive students.
  • 21st Century professionals will lead and teach in Asheville City Schools.
  • Asheville City Schools students will be healthy, responsible and engaged in positive relationships.
  • District leadership will guide innovation and continuous improvement in Asheville City Schools through collaboration and partnership with stakeholders.
  • Asheville City Schools will use a 21st Century systems [sic.] to foster efficiency, accountability and communication.

Two goals, to make sure students aren’t denied participation in programs on the basis of race, and to strive to reduce the dropout rate to zero, are commendable. The other three goals are to:

  • Offer an expanded real-world curriculum.
  • Cultivate a multi-cultural staff.
  • Close the digital divide.