A couple of weeks ago this column referenced the ignominy of Pinellas County as it was singled out by the Schott Foundation for Public Education for having the lowest percentage of black male graduates of any major school district in the country. Approximately 20 percent. Beyond disgrace.
It was noted that the school district, after questioning Schott’s methodology, would be pushing the usual pedagogical buttons: more remedial classes, study halls and mentors as well as a plea for better administrators, teachers and pay. Of course. Obviously that can always help, but chronic black underachievement is its own, unique societal pathology. Home and ‘hood environment and student attitudes are indispensable components. Prominent among the Pinellas County laggards: Gibbs and Lakewood High Schools.
The new school year has barely begun, so it’s too early for assessments. But not too early for signs and symptoms. Lakeland’s football game against Gibbs last Friday was ended a few minutes prematurely. Gunfire near the field had players dropping for cover and fans exiting anxiously.
Pinellas County schools, especially these two, are being closely scrutinized. They’re under the gun. But that’s supposed to be a metaphor.