Education Cited as Key for South Side Children

Representatives from all walks of life took part in a two-day working conference called Future Search over the summer that was geared at ensuring a successful future for all students on the near South Side of Milwaukee.

“I think this program will work as long as there is a common group working together to make a better Milwaukee and a better South Side to reach the students,” said Helen Streng, a South Division High School alumna. She was also an English teacher there before she retired 20 years ago.

“We need to let the students know that it is necessary for them to be educated if they are going to achieve success,” Streng said.

The conference is part of a 4½-year initiative by the Milwaukee Teachers’ Education Association, Milwaukee Public Schools, WEAC and the NEA.

The more than 50 participants included parents, administrators, elected officials, community leaders, business leaders, students, educators, police, and clergy.

The group’s efforts were applauded by U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold, who attended the Italian Community Center meeting. “Public education is our children’s single best shot at securing a better future,” he said.

Posted August 31, 1998