State school chief: Help schools that were eligible for state takeover

State School Superintendent Richard Woods says the defeat of the Opportunity School District Tuesday will intensify his agency’s efforts to help failing schools that were eligible for state takeover.

The effort to amend the state constitution to allow the state to seize schools and the local taxes supporting those schools was firmly rebuffed by voters; 60 percent voted against the OSD.

“As state school superintendent, I have traveled to schools across Georgia, including some that were on the Opportunity-eligible list. Many factors contribute to the poor performance of these schools — fractured communities, unclear expectations, lack of consistent leadership, inconsistent support, and students who have needs that go beyond pure academics,” says Woods.

http://www.ajc.com/news/local-education/state-school-chief-help-schools-that-were-eligible-for-state-takeover/9YPbXs0xFWVTh5U6mYjzcN/