By Domenick Epps

At Suffolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority’s 45th anniversary, I was introduced to a great leader, Dr. Karlton O. Johnson, principal at Blanche Ely High School in Pompano Beach, Fla.

It is a blessing to know he was raised in the Cypress Manor/Parker Riddick community and is a product of Suffolk Public Schools. I thanked God that he went against the status quo and succeeded, even in a troublesome environment.

Then I thought of the city manager’s proposed budget in regards to the School Board’s request as I pondered on Dr. Johnson’s many accolades.

School Superintendent Deran Whitney asked for a $1-million boost in school funding from the city. But City Manger Patrick Roberts’ budget suggested only a $262,000 increase.

“When Dr. Karlton Johnson arrived at Blanche Ely High School eight years ago, enrollment was declining, the physical facility was in poor condition and students were not engaged. His goal was to transform the school to create a stronger community, and to help students embrace their educational opportunities.

“Since 2010, the school has improved its state letter grade to a “B,” enrollment has increased and dual enrollment has grown. The overall graduation rate at Blanche Ely High is now the highest in the school’s history, at 90 percent, and the graduation rate for black male students is the second highest in the district.

“Ninety-six percent of Blanche Ely High magnet students attend four-year colleges and universities, and many earn scholarships.”

The above was written as Dr. Johnson was awarded as Principal of the Year for 2016 at the 2016 Caliber Awards Ceremony in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

A few questions crossed my mind:

• Did Dr. Johnson achieve this on a sub-par budget?
• Does the accreditation rating of schools in Virginia take into account schools operating on a partial budget?
• Can you expect one to perform at high levels when there is a limit on available funds?

School accreditation ratings for 2015-2016 are based on student achievement on Standards of Learning tests and other tests in English, mathematics, history/social science and science.

Accreditation ratings also reflect adjustments made for schools that successfully remediate students who initially fail reading or mathematics tests. Adjustments also may be made for students with limited English proficiency and for students who have recently transferred into a Virginia public school.

Schools that are not fully accredited but that are within two points of the adjusted SOL pass rates required for full accreditation in one or more subject areas receive this rating.

Notice that accreditation has nothing to do with budget. But the programs, tools and systems needed require funds. If they don’t have the funds, then how can you expect our schools to be fully accredited?

Certainly there are other contributing factors when it comes to approving an operating budget, but I ask that our City Council focus on the importance of education and that our School Board narrow its focus to key areas that can reduce the dropout rate and prepare students for standardized tests.

Domenick Epps is a Suffolk resident, real estate agent and youth pastor. Email him at DomenickEpps.Realtor@gmail.com.