Copyright The Boston Herald
Boston’s schools are drowning in promise — and barely staying afloat in reality. Tuesday night, Mayor Michelle Wu delivered the State of the Schools address with optimism, polish, and a long list of initiatives meant to showcase progress. She spoke of innovation, equity, and modern classrooms. But the hard truth is this: words alone won’t fix overcrowded schools, teacher shortages, or decades of educational inequity. Mayor Wu promised progress, yet concrete timelines and accountability measures were largely absent. Boston’s students cannot wait for “future-ready” programs while classrooms remain under-resourced and teachers leave for better opportunities elsewhere. Vision without urgency risks being little more than a feel-good speech. Budget transparency was also notably thin. We hear about “more funding,” but not where it’s going or how it will directly improve learning. Families deserve clarity, not slogans. Without clear, measurable plans, the city risks repeating the same cycle: ambitious speeches followed by incremental change. Equity was another central theme. Targeted programs for underserved communities were highlighted, but incremental efforts cannot undo decades of systemic gaps overnight. Real equity requires bold, sustained action — not just PowerPoint promises. That said, there were promising notes: attention to mental health, curriculum innovation, and climate-ready schools shows awareness of today’s complex educational needs. But intention must meet action, and action must meet urgency. Boston’s students, teachers, and parents don’t need another vision — they need results. The State of the Schools is not a moment to celebrate what might happen; it’s a call to commit to what must happen now. Boston’s schools cannot survive on promises alone. They need bold action, clear accountability, and immediate investment. Every student, teacher, and parent deserves more than speeches — they deserve a city willing to fight for their future. If Mayor Wu truly wants Boston to lead in education, it’s time to turn words into results. Anything less is not leadership — it’s a delay our children cannot afford. Cheryl Buckman is a BPS activist, parent, and Parent Lead at the Dever Elementary School.
