Good news about Detroit parent Agenda priorities

There's lot of news lately concerning the highest priorities for Detroit parents - read all about it:

In Better Schools news, Detroit Free Press has a report about the reform measures being discussed as part of Detroit Public Schools' negotiations with Detroit Federation of teachers:

In an effort to improve academic performance in Detroit Public Schools, the teachers union and school district are negotiating to mandate sweeping academic reforms in the new labor contract.

The reforms under discussion for the next teacher contract include peer evaluations and school-based performance bonuses. Site-based management -- a topic that in 1992 sparked controversy and a strike -- also is on the table. It essentially would allow teachers and administrators to each have a role in making key decisions for the schools.

It's great to hear ideas about improving the schools for students figure so prominently in negotiations."

There's also good news for Safe Communities - the Free Press also reports on a big increase of street cops in the city:

Another 150 Detroit police officers are hitting the streets as the department moves about 100 cops from desk jobs to patrols and hires 50 more through a federal grant, officials said Tuesday.

And those cops won't cost taxpayers additional funds - most will be financed by a new Federal grant.

Bad news for Family Friendly Neighborhoods though, as Detroit News reports that budget cuts have led to uncut grass and litter in city parks:

The city, which is facing a $300 million budget deficit, cut maintenance to save about $1.5 million. Detroit typically hires 130 seasonal workers for maintenance, but this year added 38, said Edward Cardenas, a spokesman for Mayor Dave Bing. 

Cardenas said that The City hoped community groups would adopt some of the neglected parks. If your community would like to volunteer to adopt your local park to keep it safe and clean, contact the Recreation Department. 

Are you seeing good or bad news in the city? Let us know!