We disagree with fellow parents who expressed criticism of Principal Carol Markham-Cousins and her philosophy at Washburn High School.

Regarding academics, our student has been well-prepared by her career within the Minneapolis public schools, including ninth and 10th grades at Washburn for the introduction of an International Baccalaureate curriculum during her junior year.

As important: The environment at Washburn seeks to bring out the best in every student, whatever their background, skills and interests.

We applaud Markham-Cousins and the staff for their approach. Washburn graduates will go on to postsecondary education and work lives with an understanding that embracing a world full of differences is the key to success.

STEVE CRAMER AND DEBBIE BRISCH-CRAMER, MINNEAPOLIS