Former New Jersey Education Commissioner Urges Parents to Become Reformers of Their Own Schools

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CHICAGO, Jan. 20, 1997 -- To improve their children's schools, parents must become activists at their local school and district, says former New Jersey Education Commissioner Saul Cooperman, a nationally recognized education leader.

Cooperman believes that too many school policies are preserved only because "We've always done it that way." Too many school administrators use little-recognized techniques to deflect criticism, avoid responsibility and maintain the status quo, he says in his new book: "How Schools Really Work" ($17.95 in stores, or call 800-815-2280).

"Parents, business leaders, community members, and educators themselves have the power to improve their own schools, if they begin at the beginning, with a systematic reality check. That is simply a matter of reflecting on how schools should work and measuring their own schools against that yardstick," explains Cooperman, who has also been a teacher, vice principal and superintendent of schools.

"Even a quick visit can help you size up the school if you know what to look for," declares Dr. Cooperman. "How many students stay after school for activities? Who uses the library? Does the school proudly display student achievements and artwork in the halls?"

Cooperman says many parents don't know they can ask to see lesson plans and course objectives, which are excellent ways to see how prepared a teacher is.

"After more than 35 years as an insider, from the local classroom to the national policy table, I am convinced that improvement must begin locally and I want to share my experiences with parents," says Cooperman, who presently serves as chairman of a national education advisory committee.

"I wrote my new book, 'How Schools Really Work: Practical Advice to Parents from an Insider,' to provide parents with a yardstick and guide that will help them ask the right questions, identify needed change and take action to improve their children's schools."

Former New Jersey Governor Tom Kean, under whom Cooperman served as Commissioner, agrees. "If everyone would read and act on Saul Cooperman's ideas," says Kean, "we wouldn't need a national reform movement."

"How Schools Really Work," $17.95, Open Court, in bookstores or call 800-815-2280.

CONTACT: Jennifer Asmuth of Open Court, 312-939-1500, ext. 718