A Teacher's Journal 25: Sad Day for Wake

You see, we believe in Bill McNeal. We trust him because he is an educator first, spending his career in the very classrooms where we continue to work and with the families who we continue to serve. His genuine concern for our needs and his constant commitment to equally praising and improving our efforts make him something much more than just "the Superintendent" of the Wake County Public School System. Those who work closely with him leave inspired and empowered -- believing in our ability to bring positive change to our communities.

This ability to inspire has allowed Bill McNeal to push our system to new levels by setting ambitious goals. Goal 2005 and Goal 2008 -- designed to bring 95 percent of all students to grade level -- have refocused our work and made us an academic leader among urban school districts in America. Student assignment plans designed to ensure that every school has accomplished teachers demonstrate a genuine commitment to segments of the population that often go overlooked. Teachers and principals recognize our responsibility to the success of every child and walk confidently, modeling the poise and assurance of "the Sup."

So what comes next for our schools?

In many ways, I'm certain that we'll continue to improve! The core beliefs that Superintendent McNeal has introduced to our system have become a part of who we are. Those who have benefited from his guidance and leadership will ensure that we move forward toward a goal of excellence for all children. His legacy will be seen in the faces of each new student who, regardless of personal challenges, excels in a strong school supported by our strong community.

Come July, we'll just have to do these things without a remarkable man that we have come to respect and admire very much.

It truly is a sad day for Wake!