We all grumble about the state of the world, the country, the weather, reality TV, self-serving politicians, and so on, and we typically end our rants with a helpless, what-are-you gonna-do shrug. But every once in a while, a group of individuals coalesce into a team with a willingness to get up off the metaphorical couch, step into the fray, and take action.

So it is with the faculty and staff who have elected to join John Siskar in commiting to the development of a proposal for Buffalo State to take on the daunting role of Educational Partnership Organization (EPO) for struggling Lafayette High School. Given the complex challenges inherent in urban education in general, coupled with the unique array of variables affecting Lafayette, most of us would have to conclude, this is a tough, tough mission. One that not everyone would be willing to accept. But this group of professionals boldly raised its collective hand and basically said, "we're in." The members know from the get-go that making measurable improvement in a designated failing school is a muddy, uphill slog. But this team of BSC educators and partners is making the the big leap. The easy thing would be to take a pass, since this is a no-net high wire act. But the EPO group is willing to put its knowledge, skills, and expertise on the line in order to work with Lafayette faculty, staff, and  Buffalo Public Schools administration to help bring a new, sustainable learning culture to students in dire need.

This effort is a great example of social entrepreneurism at its finest. Bravo!