Compton Principals
* Re “The ‘Kid Principals’ of Compton,” Oct. 2: Three cheers to Mikara Solomon, principal of the Ralph Bunche Elementary School in Compton, and her fellow “kid principals” Ron Stamper and Stephen Schatz.
These fine young educational leaders exemplify what may be needed to turn around those schools that have been labeled “low-performing schools.” Having young people undertake leadership positions is not new. Remember World War II--thousands of young men and women became “90-day wonders” and assumed leadership positions and performed meritoriously under the most trying conditions. If these young principals are given just a chance by their staffs and local school communities, everyone will become a winner.
By the way, in 1956 at the “ripe old age of 26,” I was appointed to open and become the first principal of Ralph Bunche Elementary School. By the time I was Solomon’s age, I was a “seasoned principal.”
DON HODES
Calabasas
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