There was a news story that escaped many people's attention recently. Need to Know Rochester focused a special presentation on the plight of African-American male students in the Rochester City School District. That group makes up a significantly disproportionate number of the students being expelled or referred to special education and they're much more likely than other students to dropout before earning their diplomas. We examined why this is happening, and what might help them succeed in school. The special episode, “A Challenge to Rochester Schools”, was lauded by many, including former Rochester City School Superintendent Jean-Claude Brizard who said that it should be seen by everyone and that it is relevant everywhere. In fact, the Rochester City School Board screened the program during a special meeting on October 6 and invited WXXI News Director Julie Philipp to moderate a panel discussion about the program afterword. If you missed the special, you can watch it on our Need to Know Rochester Web site.

This was just another example of the vital, in-depth local news efforts that only WXXI provides. Whether it's television specials, ongoing coverage by our radio news team or the trusted information you get from NPR each day, no media group in the region is as dedicated to this community as WXXI. If you believe -- as many others do -- that this reporting is a vital part of your life, I invite you to support its effort. You can make your pledge online by clicking here. Your membership will help insure that quality, independent broadcasting remains strong in Rochester.