Does Deal offer anything interesting?

[Anonymous]

Our son was accepted OOB to Deal; we are quite happy with his current program (charter), which is challenging and interesting. However, Deal is much closer to our home which would help us a lot logistically, and I know children who have gone there and seem stimulated and happy. I have also heard good things about the principal. On the down side, I am not the biggest fan of DCPS ... And although my son has had good experiences in the schools he attended (DCPS) he clearly likes, and has thrived in, his current non-DCPS school the most.

That being said, Deal sounds like it would be worth it--

Can anyone give me the 'real deal' on what is offered? How is math in 7th? Which books are being used? Can you place into algebra in 7th? How is Science in 7th? Real labs? FOSS kits? Is the IB program up and running? How is English--do the children read real texts (novels, newspapers etc.) or is it 'canned'? Technology? Socially, how are the kids? Are they nice? Finally, is there anything simply amazing about Deal? I would appreciate hearing the downs or ups, so we can make an informed decision.

I will also arrange a visit for him, and check it out myself. His acceptance OOB was last minute and unexpected.

[Anonymous]

I have a 7th grader at Deal and an older child in private in private (who did not go to Deal). My 7th grader uses the same Algebra and French text books as did the private school (at Deal they give a placement test for math only -- and place in Math 7 or Algebra). In science, they are now doing genetics and just had a debate between two classes on a genetic engineering topic. No FOSS kits, but my child has been very engaged. In English, they have read lots of "real" texts, not just the textbook -- right now, Devil's Arithmetic, but also Gilgamesh, the Miracle Worker and a number of others and projects on each one (like re-write Gilgamesh from verse to prose). Strong instrumental and choral music programs before school, great debate program and other activities after school. The mix of kids has been good for my somewhat quiet child. No major disruptions.

The final part of the IB application is to be sent this June with hopes of full implementation in the fall. The final renovations have are on track and have been handled well with minimal disruption. Lot's of preparation for the addition of 6th grade next year. Each grade will be on a separate floor except for classes like PE, music etc.

Check out the website, which includes the weekly emails from the principal and the monthly PTA newsletter. www.dealpta.org

The staff is all extremely welcoming. When I walk the halls I am greeted by almost every staff member and even the construction workers. A team teaching approach with students in groups of 90-100 who all have the same 4 core teachers who meet together to coordinate and discuss approaches for specific students and issues. This will continue next year. Total enrollment next year is expected to be 870 -- 290 for each grade. Three teams per grade.

I have seen another DCPS middle school and a private middle and high school first hand. I have been very pleased with Deal.

Take the time to visit and sit in on some classes. But bear in mind DCPS spring break is next week.

[Anonymous]

Thank you for your very full reply. It sounds like the offerings are strong and diversified. I have seen a lot of programs going through a 'change process' lately. Any worries about the addition of 6th? For example, are new teachers being brought in, or will they be plucked from the teams that seem to be operating well in place at their various grade levels? Thank you again for your insights

[Anonymous]

The teachers at Deal are great. There were some good teachers there to begin with but the principal has been hiring some real winners during her years there. I also really like one of the counselors, Ms. Hernandez. She is a great person to talk to about the school and she will set up visits with parents.

She talked about hiring new teachers for the team and moving current teachers around to make all teams equally strong. The teams change year to year anyway so it won't be a big change.