by
N1:In a classroom at a community center in the South Bronx last week, some thirty parents and organizers sat in a circle as their kids played in the gym. They believe a major problem is their school district's inability to attract and retain licensed and experienced teachers, which has a significant impact on student achievement.Two years ago, they created what they call the Lead Teacher program. It recruits experienced teachers and pays them more to be mentors. These experienced teachers teach half-day and spend the other half coaching new teachers.Frances Tejada is a parent and organizer who attended the meeting. She believes the Lead Teacher program helps more than just the teachers. AX1: FRANCES TEJADA (0:16) I find that it's really enriching for the whole community because the lead teachers are more involved and putting these ideas into the teachers that parent involvement's very important, so they're opening new thoughts. It's not just an academic thing, it's also... community partnership.N2:The successful launch of this two-year-old program comes from the parents and community activists working with the teachers union. Historically, parents from low-income areas and the union had a deep mistrust of each other. Eric Zachary is from NYU's Institute for Education and Social Policy. AX2: ERIC ZACHARY (0:13) There was a growing understanding on the part of the community groups and the union that by themselves they had limited power. Working together, pooling their power, they would have more capacity to influence the school system.N3:Calling themselves the Community Collaborative to Improve Bronx Schools, or CCB, they presented a clear case to the union. They cited the problem and offered a viable solution. The Lead Teacher program, which saw TK percent of teachers stay, was the result of the parents' ability to organize.Chauncy Young is an education advocate from the Highbridge Community Life Center. AX3: CHAUNCY YOUNG (0:09) This is very much a parent-led organization and our role is truly a support role. We are certainly not th eleaders here. The parents are the leaders.N4:The CCB raised $400,000 from foundations and grants, then went to the city Board of Education. They were awarded a $1.6-million grant to launch the Lead Teacher program in their district, District 9.Nicole Duncan is a CCB member. She has two boys, ages 9 and 11, who are in District 9 schools. She appreciates what the community groups bring to the CCB. AX4: They understand where the parents, what's the need at. The need of the community. They understand that a great deal. And once you understand that and you know what is that we need and what are we looking for, there's nothing you can't do.N5:In mid-September, the mayor announced that, due to its success in the South Bronx, the Lead Teacher program will be launched city-wide next school year.Nina Gregory, Columbia Radio News.