Maintain equality in our schools

To the editor:

My letter is to the new Iowa City Community School District school board as they think about magnet schools.

Families attending magnet schools like the focus on academic performance, educational experience and strong parent support. Even the few low SES students can achieve higher. In theory, magnet schools increase diversity.

In reality there is segregation with a restricted population based on ability and talents, and usually two college educated parents without transportation issues. There is also a big imbalance in equity as resources are drawn from the rest of the district. Magnet schools take away by their selective admission criteria and hurdles. They underrepresent low-income, English-as-a second language, and special education students. On the average, they spend about $200 more per student than non-Magnet schools while removing bright students and best teachers from local schools.

Instead, the district should focus on making all schools like magnet schools with extra funding and special programs where needs are greatest. We have a good public school system. Do not make it less equitable. If you need more money to maintain quality then ask for a bond issue to replace funds the TIFs, governor and state legislature took away.

Judy Pfohl

Iowa City