Editor,

RE: "International curriculum: What is special about it?” (The New Times, September 9).

I have been creating schools for the last 21 years. As an African American now serving in a local secondary school founded by Americans, I do not think the solutions for exemplary academics lies deeply or solely in the curriculum that a school chooses.

A curriculum…is well just that. Teaching the curriculum well, identifying the key elements that solidify a well rounded curriculum and selecting passionate educators to implement the curriculum will take a student much further in life than a particular branded curriculum.

Expectation is key. What I find in most public/local schools is that the expectation is low. There is this overwhelming feeling that achieving what an international school achieves is just not possible. You really can do a lot with less.

The Rwanda National Curriculum, implemented and supplemented well by individuals who seek academic success, can do the job. I applaud all Rwandan schools. We all have a common goal but the success and the opportunities open to the students lie within the abilities and perseverance of those who lead and those who teach.

When will the schools that are affordable and not built to cater for only international students and expats get serious about educating their own — for us by us?

The school I head was founded by an American; however, we are built for the children of Rwanda whose parents may not have deep pockets. We are not a "rich” school by any means but we are intently determined to produce scholars who will have an opportunity to make the most of international and national opportunities.

We will rival the works of international schools - not in a competitive we can do it better way but by pushing true excellence in education using the national curriculum and not falling short by pushing failing students through the system to reach a national exam date."

Academic success should be evident throughout the terms of tutelage. If students are failing they should be held back. The future can be made brighter by one year of hold back.

What Rwanda has gotten right is getting children in school. Now, we must work on quality education. Post secondary opportunities are available both internationally and nationally to the underdogs but you've got to strategically set students up for success settling for nothing less than the very best from students, administration and those who teach.

Trice Dorrall, Head of White Dove Girls School (Kigali)