ST. LOUIS — A community-driven organization committed to quality education in St. Louis invited the public to brainstorm solutions to problems in the city's public school system Friday.
Coalition with STL Kids will hold a community town hall Friday at Drip Community Coffee House, located at 3615 Potomac St. Starting at 4:11 p.m., there will be free food and live music by local artist Joel Jennings. A town hall discussion will follow at 7:11 p.m.
The event aims to address critical issues facing public education in St. Louis and foster dialogue among parents, educators, students and community members. Organizers have plans for breakout sessions focused on creating plans to support St. Louis Public Schools.
5 On Your Side has continued to report on the district's problems including its $35 million deficit.
In the last year, there have been a plethora of issues including the school superintendent's termination, an uncertified interim superintendent being put in her place, two federal audits and a shortage of transportation. Director of transportation Toyin Akinola announced her retirement this week, and Director of Safety and Security Col. DeAndre Davis submitted his resignation.
"These collaborative groups will work on solutions that address educational challenges, helping to ensure that students and schools receive the support they need to succeed," said Chester Asher, the founder of Coalition with STL Kids.
The I-Team spoke to parents recently about alleged mismanagement and poor budgeting.