THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, June 9, 1996 TAG: 9606070188
SECTION: PORTSMOUTH CURRENTS PAGE: 06 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Editorial
LENGTH: 33 lines
The continuing success of the Churchland High Magnet School chorus department is a good reason for Portsmouth citizens to encourage the schools to spend the money needed to keep the magnet programs going.
Under the direction of Craig Robertson for the past two years, the singers have brought home one honor after another. Recently, four groups came home with four superior plaques and also earned an overall superior trophy at an international choral festival in Orlando, Fla.
The young singers represent Portsmouth well. More importantly, they are learning that hard work and knowledge brings rewards. In addition, the singers frequently are called upon and graciously give their time to perform for various organizations around town, increasing the relationship of the schools and the community.
The choral groups are not the only good thing about the city's magnet programs, but they are an excellent example of why we should continue to push for more and better magnet programs in the public schools.
Citizens who openly opposed the creation of the arts magnet program at Churchland did not win the seats they sought on the School Board. That seems to indicate that only a small but very vocal minority of citizens has a problem with the magnet program.
The Portsmouth School Board should study ways not only to maintain but also to enhance the special departments. The students and the reputation of this city's schools are much enhanced by the success of students such as those in Robertson's choral groups. by CNB