Thursday, February 7, 2008
Regarding the Feb. 3 editorial "A Boost for D.C. Schools":
My children have D.C. Opportunity Scholarships, and, as a single parent, I thank those who are supporting this program. I want my children to receive outstanding educations. Thanks to the program, my daughters are thriving in private schools that are right for them.
I wanted small class sizes, individual attention and more chances to be involved in their educations. Now I see their enthusiasm for learning, respectful behavior, wonderful grades and healthy self-esteem. I know that they will go on to college and that their futures are bright.
Our city is in dire need of educational restructuring, and I am pleased that Mayor Adrian M. Fenty and his team are focusing on making all schools better. Every child in the District should have the opportunity to receive high-quality education.
Nothing is more important to the future of our city.
ADRIENNE LYNCH
Washington
Regarding Jay Mathews's Extra Credit column in the Jan. 31 regional Extras:
The Washington region has some of the strongest schools in the country -- public and private. I disagree with Mr. Mathews's assertion that there are no "useful data" to help with decisions about alternatives to public schools; there are ample data for parents placing their children, whether the primary goal is strictly "academic rigor" or a more multifaceted perspective.
What is not available is a quick measure, such as aggregate test scores, to indicate what will lead to an individual child's optimum academic achievement and well-being. To identify the best school for a child, parents should consider all sorts of data, including teacher quality, student-to-teacher ratios and an ethos of academic challenge for all students, partnership with parents, and the level of support for achievement.
ELIZABETH DOWNES
Executive Director
Association of Independent Schools
of Greater Washington
Washington
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