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Local school leaders meet with BRAC officials about future

By Trang Do - bio | email
Posted by Dana Franks - email

HUNTSVILLE, AL (WAFF) - The future of education is more important than ever as Huntsville prepares for some 9,000 students. That's how many could come here because of the base realignment and closure transitions.

Local educators are looking forward, discussing best practices to address the graduation rate, dropout numbers and requirement of core subjects like English and math.

"Everything we do in our life focuses around the things we have success with,' said Tommy Ledbetter with Buckhorn High School

Local educators know the value of learning and what it will mean to the job market. That's why they are sharing ideas and research with others during the community education summit at UA Huntsville.

"You have to give them some staff involvement opportunities," said Dr. Anthony Dallmann-Jones.

Future teachers, administrators were tuned in, taking notes, ready for change -- mainly BRAC's impact on the local school systems. Some 9,000 new students could be here with their families by the end of next year.

"It's about a way of trying to make our school systems better," said Gen. James Myles, the commanding general of the Army Aviation and Missile Command at Redstone Arsenal.

Myles said BRAC will have a huge impact on the face of the community, and it's up to schools to turn young minds into great thinkers. And also to prepare them now with the right tools for high-tech careers close to home.

"Providing the education they need to realize their goal, which is to work on this Arsenal and support soliders," he said.

Local school leaders also addressed the crowd, giving updates on Huntsville, Madison County and Madison City Schools.

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