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The reality is that DC has focused its efforts on attracting young professionals, those right out of college, childless couples, and the affluent. Most of the new developments, especially condos and apartments, seem geared to those without children or families.

I think DC has quietly given up on improving DCPS. DCPS is a nonstarter with most affluent parents in Wards #2, 3, and 6. Those with the means will send their kids to schools like Landon, Georgetown Day, Sidwell, St. Alban's, National Cathedral, and Georgetown Prep. They aren't going to send their kids to DCPS.

DC probably realizes that there will always be young people and childless couples who will keep coming. I'm 34, but some of my colleagues who live in DC have told me that they plan to move to either Fairfax or Montgomery Counties once their children are ready to attend school. They don't want to deal with the substandard DC school system.

I do agree that there should be more magnet and academically gifted programs in other parts of the city. But I suspect what will happen is that it will create an outcry from those east of Rock Creek Park. Mayor Williams proposed moving UDC to Anacostia from upper NW and there was an outcry over it.

I also agree that there is a problem with racial diversity in magnet and gifted programs. The only solution I can come up with is identifying children very early on and then preparing them so that they can do well at a magnet or gifted program. I think a lot of the problem is that many of these kids and their parents aren't aware of the programs, don't know how to prepare, have self-esteem issues, and just don't think they can get in there.

by Rain17 on Jul 23, 2012 6:55 pm • link • report