“Codman is a model of the small school – the new blueprint for urban high schools.” (Sarah Rimer, The New York Times). Founded in 2001, this charter school in Dorchester has achieved near miracles and gained a national reputation as a leader in education reform. With 99% students of color, randomly selected, many lacking basic skills upon entry, 100% of its three graduating classes have been accepted to four-year colleges. Codman’s approach is simple: hard work and tough love, always “on-task.” It is open weekdays from 8:15 to 6:00, with classes from 9 to 5, and morning classes on Saturdays. Parental involvement is required. Students learn respect, perseverance, and civic engagement along with academics. In 2005, as part of their study of Community Violence, they created a powerful and much-discussed art installation in Codman Square of 75 pairs of empty shoes, to represent the 75 Boston homicide victims that year. Their Principal and founding Humanities teacher Thabiti Brown was recognized with a (Jonathan) Milken Educators Award as one of the 100 Best Educators in America. This is your opportunity to join in helping this model institution continue its uplifting work.