To the editor:
If you drive through the tip of Leelanau County, you’ll see a new yard sign that’s popping up all over the Northport School district. One side says, “We Love Our Wildcats” and the flip side says, “Ask us why we love Northport Public School.” Here’s my response. I discovered the Mackinac Center for Public Policy Performance Report Card for elementary an Middle Schools quite awhile after it was published. I stopped by the school and had the opportunity to congratulate the principal for Northport’s impressive score of 26th in the state. When I asked him why I hadn’t heard anything about this report, he responded, “We don’t toot our own horn very well. We mind our own business and our business is our kids.”
After going to a school board meeting, the Superintendent gave an overview of the 3rd level of a Language Arts curriculum that they will be adding this school year. The main emphasis of all three phases builds on the concept of critical thinking. Something every student of life needs to become a successful adult. I am elated to see the appreciation, love and support shown by parents and community members for our small school. My observation of a job well done? Teachers and parents who care! And, it pays off to teach to the student’s needs and not to a test.
