The leader of the Grabiarz School of Excellence in Buffalo has been mentioned as a possible contender for the superintendent's job. But WBFO'S Focus on Education Reporter Eileen Buckley spoke with Principal Gregory Mott said he hasn't applied yet.
WBFO News asked Mott if he has applied for the city superintendent job. "I have not applied for the superintendency posting currently," stated Mott. "But I'm definitely looking forward to having conversations about ways to make Buffalo schools better."
When asked how to improve struggling city schools, Mott replied, "I think it begins with leadership."
Mott noted that "you've got to have a highly effective teacher in every classroom."
Mott said most students want to be successful. "We focus a lot on literacy here at Grabiarz campus. A lot of the standards are literacy based," said Mott. "When you celebrate successes kids want to be celebrated, so it actually builds."
Mott said the district needs to build a culture of high excellence and high expectations.
"But a culture -- that sense of belonging -- where kids want to be here and demonstrate their learning. I do believe there are individuals in the community who would love too see this model at Grabiarz campus school replicated and duplicated throughout the district," stated Mott.
