BASIS DC will seek to expand to include K to 4th grade

[Anonymous]

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Anonymous wrote:Why are they so confident?

Are they going to make kids repeat grades, so each class will have some older kids in it?

I hope so. That's one of the things I like about the school. Disruptive kids who can't hack it don't continue to disrupt.

Having kids repeat grades doesn’t work. If a kid doesn’t understand the academics in a particular grade, they need specialized intervention. Just the kid sit through the same content twice won’t do a thing. Additionally, kids who are retained are more likely to drop out since they legally can on their 18th birthday. That’s why schools don’t do it anymore.

Works great for me and my kids. My kids' classes are filled with kids at or above grade level, and disruptive kids who want attention instead of to learn feel uncomfortable in an environment where academic success is prioritized and rewarded.

We get it, you just want “those kids” out of the way. But having an individual kid repeat a grade isn’t going to improve that kid’s academic or life outcomes at all, and leaves the previous grade with those pesky retained kids. If your goal is to educate a kid, having them repeat a grade doesn’t do anything to accomplish that goal.

JFC. You continue to fall back on a false choice.

P.S. Yes, I want disruptive kids who don't care about learning the hell away from my kids and all other kids who want to learn. What's funny is you spend so much time around SJW who suffer liberal guilt that you don't quite know how to respond when people don't scurry away at being accused of "not caring" or in response to veiled accusations of racism (see, "those kids").

Wow your genius plan to warehouse kids with special needs is so ethical, and so very IDEA-compliant. What a nice, caring, empathetic person you must be.

Did you ever think about how we're all one car accident away from having special needs? Life can change in an instant. Be careful what you wish for.

There you go again with false choices. You frame the issue in such a way as to prevent honest discussion of issues. You immediately flee to your corner with: 15 year olds in K!!! Warehousing kids!!!

You spend a lot of time on these topics and yet seem woefully disinterested in solving the problems. You favor bumper stickers and talking points. Why are trade schools not a better option than social promotion? Why can't we consider the deleterious impact of these precious few on the larger population or kids? Why must you conflate special needs with disruptive a-holes who are perpetually truant and disruptive and violent? We are also just one bullet or botched robbery away from dying or trauma because some "HS grad" with a 5th grade education is in and out of prison, but thank the lord he wasn't held back.

Because trade schools aren't appropriate for elementary age. And because all children have the right to a real education, not "trade school". "Holding back" kids does not actually address their needs and makes them far more likely to drop out, that is why I don't support it. If a student is disruptive, they should be diagnosed with whatever is applicable and receive services for that. Sometimes that means a different school placement, but students have the right to the least restrictive environment. Even if you don't like it, it's the law. So what you're proposing is that BASIS not follow IDEA. Right? It seems like you wish these children would just disappear.

I don't care if you call me names, but to say things like that about children is really tasteless. Adolescents are truant, disruptive, and violent for reasons-- because of special needs, life circumstances, or traumatic experiences. If you don't see the connection, that's unfortunate, because it's real. Those things can be addressed and helped, it takes time and doesn't work perfectly but it's worth it and pays off in the long run. I believe all children should have their needs met and a peaceful learning environment, and I'm sorry to hear you don't believe that is possible at BASIS. Perhaps the staff at BASIS is not doing a good job?

I think some of them are this way because people like you have created an environment where there is no accountability. You make excuses for everything. A kid is violent, let's not blame the kid. Let's not blame the parents. You spend more time worrying about the violent, truant ill-mannered kids than the ones they victimize. Of course, when a kids witnesses violence in the classroom from one of these kids, we've now got 35 more kids who witnesed violence. I bet you are a big proponent of restorative justice.

P.S. You talk a lot about IDEA and BASIS violating it. The people who enforce it don't think they do. If you want to be an expert, know what the heck you are talking about.

Actually I really dislike restorative justice, I find it ineffective and it consumes an enormous amount of instructional time if implemented to the model.

My question is whether BASIS' retention policy would violate IDEA if implemented at the elementary level. I honestly don't know the answer. But a lack of enforcement doesn't mean it's actually compliant, it just means the school is getting away with it.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:TBH... there is a real risk that BASIS goes down the tubes if it doesn't have a big population of UMC families coming in at 5th.

Oh, don't worry, they will. I would be more concerned about UMC families deserting their in-bounds schools.

Founded in 1998, BASIS has 59 schools, including 43 charter schools. They are the only national charter in DC.

In just a decade BASIS DC went from nothing to the #1 middle school in DC, and admissions gets harder and harder every year.

[Anonymous]

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Anonymous wrote:I wish they would open up a second middle/high school instead because there are plenty of good elementary schools in DC already and a shortage of good middle and high school options. Also, the BASIS HOS mentioned the second school could potentially share outdoor space and a gym with the current school which would be amazing regardless but more ideal with students similarly aged.

Another thought: With a BASIS elementary school feeding into the middle/high school eventually, it seems eventually less Capitol Hill families would be at BASIS because they have great convenient elementary options already…

This. Hill families, your middle school seats are threatened!

This is a very real issue. Enrollment data shows us that Brent, Maurey and Watkins send a TON of kids to BASIS. There won't be 135 5th grade seats to fill of they are only backfilling from 4th grade BASIS kids. Will those Hill families choose BASIS in K instead of Brent, etc.? If BASIS had a good or great physical space for ES, does that change the answer? If they don't choose BASIS, what does the demographic of BASIS look like without all those white UMC families? Are there enough kids who can hack it at BASIS to fill those spots if the Hill school populations aren't filling them? Could this help the Hill MS to improve without the brain drain? Would people think twice about living on the Hill without the BASIS school safety valve?

I am asking these questions, but I would note that BASIS is not responsible for or to the CH schools. The CH families may think BASIS is "theirs" but it isn't.

This, exactly. Is BASIS really that great, or is it a meh school whose "success" is the result of demographics and of their social promotion policy (and don't forget, shirking on taking kids after 5th like other schools do).

I think this is a very interesting question. My guess is that most Brent/Maury/LT families will not move their kids to BASIS for K just to lock in 5th. They'll already have been at their local ES for 1-2 years and they'll by-and-large have had good experiences, because those schools are good. The kind of families who stick out the Hill are the kind of families who don't prioritize locking in a middle school (or they'd move to NW/Deal/Hardy). BASIS is close, but not close enough to be neighborhood-y for K-4; kids are very different by 5th. Also UMC Hill parents are by and large super involved in the Hill ESes and I just can't see BASIS allowing that, which I think would frustrate those parents. (I think Watkins could cut a bit differently. Families already have to move from Peabody to Watkins in 1st and as UMC families are increasingly reluctant to do that, I think those families might cut out for BASIS in K instead in higher numbers.)

If Brent/Maury/LT shared a middle school, I actually think this could have a positive effect on the local MS almost immediately... since they don't, it'll be a small trickle. SH could be the most affected the most immediately, since LT & Watkins both feed there and not all Watkins kids will bail, even if in larger numbers. I wonder what percentage of slots they'll hold for MS? At first it's going to be all sibling preference and newbies will be shut out entirely unless that percentage is huge. Middle school entry will get even crazier if this is approved.

I'm PP to whom you responded. I think I agree with much of what what you project. One of the things I find amusing is the reflexive responses on DCUM from people who immediately question whether BASIS is appropriate for ES. They have like 40 other schools that already offer K+.

Everyone knows BASIS operates lots of elementary schools. But this country is filled with crappy schools. Existing doesn't mean it's actually good.

https://enrollbasis.com/about-basis-charter-schools/awards-and-rankings/

Objective data says they thrive.

Oh please, let's definitely compare private and selective admissions schools as if they're pure lottery in a high-needs area.

What are you talking about? All BASIS schools are free and lottery. The rankings I pointed to are for BASIS schools. Stop typing; you look more foolish evert time you "contribute".

Ha ha! So quintessentially DCUM. An obnoxious post calling out someone for being wrong while actually being totally wrong themselves!

Come back PP. Let us learn from your infinite wisdom! Tell me how I send my kid to Basis McLean for free!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:TBH... there is a real risk that BASIS goes down the tubes if it doesn't have a big population of UMC families coming in at 5th.

Oh, don't worry, they will. I would be more concerned about UMC families deserting their in-bounds schools.

Founded in 1998, BASIS has 59 schools, including 43 charter schools. They are the only national charter in DC.

In just a decade BASIS DC went from nothing to the #1 middle school in DC, and admissions gets harder and harder every year.

"The only national charter" whut? What about KIPP?

Check here for waitlist data: https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/aaron2446/viz/MSDCSeatsandWaitlistOfferData_draft/MSDCPublicDisplay

I'm really perplexed why you would say admissions is getting harder and harder. The waitlist this year is shorter than it was in 2020.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:TBH... there is a real risk that BASIS goes down the tubes if it doesn't have a big population of UMC families coming in at 5th.

Oh, don't worry, they will. I would be more concerned about UMC families deserting their in-bounds schools.

Founded in 1998, BASIS has 59 schools, including 43 charter schools. They are the only national charter in DC.

In just a decade BASIS DC went from nothing to the #1 middle school in DC, and admissions gets harder and harder every year.

Even if BASIS filled an entire elementary school with UMC kids, there are enough UMC kids at the elementary level that it wouldn't wreck the DCPS schools. But of course, a BASIS elementary would likely have a lot of kids from not-as-good schools, making the impact on high-performing DCPS schools even smaller.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:TBH... there is a real risk that BASIS goes down the tubes if it doesn't have a big population of UMC families coming in at 5th.

White savior complex has entered the discussion. They seem to do fine in 40 or so other places. Or do you think UMC white folks from CH are just more special here?

In those 40 or so other places, they also have a ton of UMC families. I think UMC families make it a lot easier for a school to be successful. And I think UMC families make a learning environment a lot less chaotic. Do you disagree?

[Anonymous]

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Anonymous wrote:I wish they would open up a second middle/high school instead because there are plenty of good elementary schools in DC already and a shortage of good middle and high school options. Also, the BASIS HOS mentioned the second school could potentially share outdoor space and a gym with the current school which would be amazing regardless but more ideal with students similarly aged.

Another thought: With a BASIS elementary school feeding into the middle/high school eventually, it seems eventually less Capitol Hill families would be at BASIS because they have great convenient elementary options already…

This. Hill families, your middle school seats are threatened!

This is a very real issue. Enrollment data shows us that Brent, Maurey and Watkins send a TON of kids to BASIS. There won't be 135 5th grade seats to fill of they are only backfilling from 4th grade BASIS kids. Will those Hill families choose BASIS in K instead of Brent, etc.? If BASIS had a good or great physical space for ES, does that change the answer? If they don't choose BASIS, what does the demographic of BASIS look like without all those white UMC families? Are there enough kids who can hack it at BASIS to fill those spots if the Hill school populations aren't filling them? Could this help the Hill MS to improve without the brain drain? Would people think twice about living on the Hill without the BASIS school safety valve?

I am asking these questions, but I would note that BASIS is not responsible for or to the CH schools. The CH families may think BASIS is "theirs" but it isn't.

This, exactly. Is BASIS really that great, or is it a meh school whose "success" is the result of demographics and of their social promotion policy (and don't forget, shirking on taking kids after 5th like other schools do).

I think this is a very interesting question. My guess is that most Brent/Maury/LT families will not move their kids to BASIS for K just to lock in 5th. They'll already have been at their local ES for 1-2 years and they'll by-and-large have had good experiences, because those schools are good. The kind of families who stick out the Hill are the kind of families who don't prioritize locking in a middle school (or they'd move to NW/Deal/Hardy). BASIS is close, but not close enough to be neighborhood-y for K-4; kids are very different by 5th. Also UMC Hill parents are by and large super involved in the Hill ESes and I just can't see BASIS allowing that, which I think would frustrate those parents. (I think Watkins could cut a bit differently. Families already have to move from Peabody to Watkins in 1st and as UMC families are increasingly reluctant to do that, I think those families might cut out for BASIS in K instead in higher numbers.)

If Brent/Maury/LT shared a middle school, I actually think this could have a positive effect on the local MS almost immediately... since they don't, it'll be a small trickle. SH could be the most affected the most immediately, since LT & Watkins both feed there and not all Watkins kids will bail, even if in larger numbers. I wonder what percentage of slots they'll hold for MS? At first it's going to be all sibling preference and newbies will be shut out entirely unless that percentage is huge. Middle school entry will get even crazier if this is approved.

I'm PP to whom you responded. I think I agree with much of what what you project. One of the things I find amusing is the reflexive responses on DCUM from people who immediately question whether BASIS is appropriate for ES. They have like 40 other schools that already offer K+.

Everyone knows BASIS operates lots of elementary schools. But this country is filled with crappy schools. Existing doesn't mean it's actually good.

https://enrollbasis.com/about-basis-charter-schools/awards-and-rankings/

Objective data says they thrive.

Oh please, let's definitely compare private and selective admissions schools as if they're pure lottery in a high-needs area.

What are you talking about? All BASIS schools are free and lottery. The rankings I pointed to are for BASIS schools. Stop typing; you look more foolish evert time you "contribute".

You are 100% wrong and look really foolish because of your tone in this post. Even in the DMV, Basis McLean is a private school. Basis Brooklyn is a private school. In almost all BASIS locations, students have to pass a placement test (post-lottery) to be placed in a grade and, if a student doesn't pass, their admission is contingent on being willing to repeat the prior grade. You have ABSOLUTELY no idea what you're talking about.

You have conflated the BASIS charter schools with the private for profit BASIS Independent Schools (McLean). The schools on the list I linked to are the charter schools. THEY ARE NOT PRIVATE. Which is why when you misunderstand the difference and accuse someone (incorrectly) of referencing private schools, you look like a fool.

BASIS charter schools take all comers. They absolutely to a test to place kids where they belong. They do not refuse kids based on those results, merely place them appropriately. That is not an "admissions test".

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I wish they would open up a second middle/high school instead because there are plenty of good elementary schools in DC already and a shortage of good middle and high school options. Also, the BASIS HOS mentioned the second school could potentially share outdoor space and a gym with the current school which would be amazing regardless but more ideal with students similarly aged.

Another thought: With a BASIS elementary school feeding into the middle/high school eventually, it seems eventually less Capitol Hill families would be at BASIS because they have great convenient elementary options already…

This. Hill families, your middle school seats are threatened!

This is a very real issue. Enrollment data shows us that Brent, Maurey and Watkins send a TON of kids to BASIS. There won't be 135 5th grade seats to fill of they are only backfilling from 4th grade BASIS kids. Will those Hill families choose BASIS in K instead of Brent, etc.? If BASIS had a good or great physical space for ES, does that change the answer? If they don't choose BASIS, what does the demographic of BASIS look like without all those white UMC families? Are there enough kids who can hack it at BASIS to fill those spots if the Hill school populations aren't filling them? Could this help the Hill MS to improve without the brain drain? Would people think twice about living on the Hill without the BASIS school safety valve?

I am asking these questions, but I would note that BASIS is not responsible for or to the CH schools. The CH families may think BASIS is "theirs" but it isn't.

This, exactly. Is BASIS really that great, or is it a meh school whose "success" is the result of demographics and of their social promotion policy (and don't forget, shirking on taking kids after 5th like other schools do).

I think this is a very interesting question. My guess is that most Brent/Maury/LT families will not move their kids to BASIS for K just to lock in 5th. They'll already have been at their local ES for 1-2 years and they'll by-and-large have had good experiences, because those schools are good. The kind of families who stick out the Hill are the kind of families who don't prioritize locking in a middle school (or they'd move to NW/Deal/Hardy). BASIS is close, but not close enough to be neighborhood-y for K-4; kids are very different by 5th. Also UMC Hill parents are by and large super involved in the Hill ESes and I just can't see BASIS allowing that, which I think would frustrate those parents. (I think Watkins could cut a bit differently. Families already have to move from Peabody to Watkins in 1st and as UMC families are increasingly reluctant to do that, I think those families might cut out for BASIS in K instead in higher numbers.)

If Brent/Maury/LT shared a middle school, I actually think this could have a positive effect on the local MS almost immediately... since they don't, it'll be a small trickle. SH could be the most affected the most immediately, since LT & Watkins both feed there and not all Watkins kids will bail, even if in larger numbers. I wonder what percentage of slots they'll hold for MS? At first it's going to be all sibling preference and newbies will be shut out entirely unless that percentage is huge. Middle school entry will get even crazier if this is approved.

I'm PP to whom you responded. I think I agree with much of what what you project. One of the things I find amusing is the reflexive responses on DCUM from people who immediately question whether BASIS is appropriate for ES. They have like 40 other schools that already offer K+.

Everyone knows BASIS operates lots of elementary schools. But this country is filled with crappy schools. Existing doesn't mean it's actually good.

https://enrollbasis.com/about-basis-charter-schools/awards-and-rankings/

Objective data says they thrive.

Oh please, let's definitely compare private and selective admissions schools as if they're pure lottery in a high-needs area.

What are you talking about? All BASIS schools are free and lottery. The rankings I pointed to are for BASIS schools. Stop typing; you look more foolish evert time you "contribute".

You are 100% wrong and look really foolish because of your tone in this post. Even in the DMV, Basis McLean is a private school. Basis Brooklyn is a private school. In almost all BASIS locations, students have to pass a placement test (post-lottery) to be placed in a grade and, if a student doesn't pass, their admission is contingent on being willing to repeat the prior grade. You have ABSOLUTELY no idea what you're talking about.

You have conflated the BASIS charter schools with the private for profit BASIS Independent Schools (McLean). The schools on the list I linked to are the charter schools. THEY ARE NOT PRIVATE. Which is why when you misunderstand the difference and accuse someone (incorrectly) of referencing private schools, you look like a fool.

BASIS charter schools take all comers. They absolutely to a test to place kids where they belong. They do not refuse kids based on those results, merely place them appropriately. That is not an "admissions test".

Which BASIS schools have a high proportion of at-risk kids?

Why does BASIS DC perform so much worse than other BASIS schools?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I wish they would open up a second middle/high school instead because there are plenty of good elementary schools in DC already and a shortage of good middle and high school options. Also, the BASIS HOS mentioned the second school could potentially share outdoor space and a gym with the current school which would be amazing regardless but more ideal with students similarly aged.

Another thought: With a BASIS elementary school feeding into the middle/high school eventually, it seems eventually less Capitol Hill families would be at BASIS because they have great convenient elementary options already…

This. Hill families, your middle school seats are threatened!

This is a very real issue. Enrollment data shows us that Brent, Maurey and Watkins send a TON of kids to BASIS. There won't be 135 5th grade seats to fill of they are only backfilling from 4th grade BASIS kids. Will those Hill families choose BASIS in K instead of Brent, etc.? If BASIS had a good or great physical space for ES, does that change the answer? If they don't choose BASIS, what does the demographic of BASIS look like without all those white UMC families? Are there enough kids who can hack it at BASIS to fill those spots if the Hill school populations aren't filling them? Could this help the Hill MS to improve without the brain drain? Would people think twice about living on the Hill without the BASIS school safety valve?

I am asking these questions, but I would note that BASIS is not responsible for or to the CH schools. The CH families may think BASIS is "theirs" but it isn't.

This, exactly. Is BASIS really that great, or is it a meh school whose "success" is the result of demographics and of their social promotion policy (and don't forget, shirking on taking kids after 5th like other schools do).

I think this is a very interesting question. My guess is that most Brent/Maury/LT families will not move their kids to BASIS for K just to lock in 5th. They'll already have been at their local ES for 1-2 years and they'll by-and-large have had good experiences, because those schools are good. The kind of families who stick out the Hill are the kind of families who don't prioritize locking in a middle school (or they'd move to NW/Deal/Hardy). BASIS is close, but not close enough to be neighborhood-y for K-4; kids are very different by 5th. Also UMC Hill parents are by and large super involved in the Hill ESes and I just can't see BASIS allowing that, which I think would frustrate those parents. (I think Watkins could cut a bit differently. Families already have to move from Peabody to Watkins in 1st and as UMC families are increasingly reluctant to do that, I think those families might cut out for BASIS in K instead in higher numbers.)

If Brent/Maury/LT shared a middle school, I actually think this could have a positive effect on the local MS almost immediately... since they don't, it'll be a small trickle. SH could be the most affected the most immediately, since LT & Watkins both feed there and not all Watkins kids will bail, even if in larger numbers. I wonder what percentage of slots they'll hold for MS? At first it's going to be all sibling preference and newbies will be shut out entirely unless that percentage is huge. Middle school entry will get even crazier if this is approved.

I'm PP to whom you responded. I think I agree with much of what what you project. One of the things I find amusing is the reflexive responses on DCUM from people who immediately question whether BASIS is appropriate for ES. They have like 40 other schools that already offer K+.

Everyone knows BASIS operates lots of elementary schools. But this country is filled with crappy schools. Existing doesn't mean it's actually good.

https://enrollbasis.com/about-basis-charter-schools/awards-and-rankings/

Objective data says they thrive.

Oh please, let's definitely compare private and selective admissions schools as if they're pure lottery in a high-needs area.

What are you talking about? All BASIS schools are free and lottery. The rankings I pointed to are for BASIS schools. Stop typing; you look more foolish evert time you "contribute".

Look at where BASIS schools are located.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:TBH... there is a real risk that BASIS goes down the tubes if it doesn't have a big population of UMC families coming in at 5th.

Oh, don't worry, they will. I would be more concerned about UMC families deserting their in-bounds schools.

Founded in 1998, BASIS has 59 schools, including 43 charter schools. They are the only national charter in DC.

In just a decade BASIS DC went from nothing to the #1 middle school in DC, and admissions gets harder and harder every year.

"The only national charter" whut? What about KIPP?

Check here for waitlist data: https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/aaron2446/viz/MSDCSeatsandWaitlistOfferData_draft/MSDCPublicDisplay

I'm really perplexed why you would say admissions is getting harder and harder. The waitlist this year is shorter than it was in 2020.

Oh, you are right, I forgot about KIPP.

Is this the school?

https://www.washingtoninformer.com/dc-charter-board-plans-review-oversight-in-wake-of-kipp-fraud-scandal-involving-late-mayor/

BASIS only has 135 5th grade seats but sometimes admit 150 off the bat. The percentage that gets in based on the number of seats goes down each year. In the early years. everyone got in. Now, it is much harder, and this year looks like the hardest yet.

In addition, a lot of people self-select for BASIS because it is so rigorous (a lot of parents/kids aren't interested and want an easier school), so the waiting list numbers matter less for BASIS than other more "normal" schools.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

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Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I wish they would open up a second middle/high school instead because there are plenty of good elementary schools in DC already and a shortage of good middle and high school options. Also, the BASIS HOS mentioned the second school could potentially share outdoor space and a gym with the current school which would be amazing regardless but more ideal with students similarly aged.

Another thought: With a BASIS elementary school feeding into the middle/high school eventually, it seems eventually less Capitol Hill families would be at BASIS because they have great convenient elementary options already…

This. Hill families, your middle school seats are threatened!

This is a very real issue. Enrollment data shows us that Brent, Maurey and Watkins send a TON of kids to BASIS. There won't be 135 5th grade seats to fill of they are only backfilling from 4th grade BASIS kids. Will those Hill families choose BASIS in K instead of Brent, etc.? If BASIS had a good or great physical space for ES, does that change the answer? If they don't choose BASIS, what does the demographic of BASIS look like without all those white UMC families? Are there enough kids who can hack it at BASIS to fill those spots if the Hill school populations aren't filling them? Could this help the Hill MS to improve without the brain drain? Would people think twice about living on the Hill without the BASIS school safety valve?

I am asking these questions, but I would note that BASIS is not responsible for or to the CH schools. The CH families may think BASIS is "theirs" but it isn't.

This, exactly. Is BASIS really that great, or is it a meh school whose "success" is the result of demographics and of their social promotion policy (and don't forget, shirking on taking kids after 5th like other schools do).

I think this is a very interesting question. My guess is that most Brent/Maury/LT families will not move their kids to BASIS for K just to lock in 5th. They'll already have been at their local ES for 1-2 years and they'll by-and-large have had good experiences, because those schools are good. The kind of families who stick out the Hill are the kind of families who don't prioritize locking in a middle school (or they'd move to NW/Deal/Hardy). BASIS is close, but not close enough to be neighborhood-y for K-4; kids are very different by 5th. Also UMC Hill parents are by and large super involved in the Hill ESes and I just can't see BASIS allowing that, which I think would frustrate those parents. (I think Watkins could cut a bit differently. Families already have to move from Peabody to Watkins in 1st and as UMC families are increasingly reluctant to do that, I think those families might cut out for BASIS in K instead in higher numbers.)

If Brent/Maury/LT shared a middle school, I actually think this could have a positive effect on the local MS almost immediately... since they don't, it'll be a small trickle. SH could be the most affected the most immediately, since LT & Watkins both feed there and not all Watkins kids will bail, even if in larger numbers. I wonder what percentage of slots they'll hold for MS? At first it's going to be all sibling preference and newbies will be shut out entirely unless that percentage is huge. Middle school entry will get even crazier if this is approved.

I'm PP to whom you responded. I think I agree with much of what what you project. One of the things I find amusing is the reflexive responses on DCUM from people who immediately question whether BASIS is appropriate for ES. They have like 40 other schools that already offer K+.

Everyone knows BASIS operates lots of elementary schools. But this country is filled with crappy schools. Existing doesn't mean it's actually good.

https://enrollbasis.com/about-basis-charter-schools/awards-and-rankings/

Objective data says they thrive.

Oh please, let's definitely compare private and selective admissions schools as if they're pure lottery in a high-needs area.

What are you talking about? All BASIS schools are free and lottery. The rankings I pointed to are for BASIS schools. Stop typing; you look more foolish evert time you "contribute".

You are 100% wrong and look really foolish because of your tone in this post. Even in the DMV, Basis McLean is a private school. Basis Brooklyn is a private school. In almost all BASIS locations, students have to pass a placement test (post-lottery) to be placed in a grade and, if a student doesn't pass, their admission is contingent on being willing to repeat the prior grade. You have ABSOLUTELY no idea what you're talking about.

You have conflated the BASIS charter schools with the private for profit BASIS Independent Schools (McLean). The schools on the list I linked to are the charter schools. THEY ARE NOT PRIVATE. Which is why when you misunderstand the difference and accuse someone (incorrectly) of referencing private schools, you look like a fool.

BASIS charter schools take all comers. They absolutely to a test to place kids where they belong. They do not refuse kids based on those results, merely place them appropriately. That is not an "admissions test".

Which BASIS schools have a high proportion of at-risk kids?

Why does BASIS DC perform so much worse than other BASIS schools?

It doesn't. It has some of the best results in the network.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

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Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I wish they would open up a second middle/high school instead because there are plenty of good elementary schools in DC already and a shortage of good middle and high school options. Also, the BASIS HOS mentioned the second school could potentially share outdoor space and a gym with the current school which would be amazing regardless but more ideal with students similarly aged.

Another thought: With a BASIS elementary school feeding into the middle/high school eventually, it seems eventually less Capitol Hill families would be at BASIS because they have great convenient elementary options already…

This. Hill families, your middle school seats are threatened!

This is a very real issue. Enrollment data shows us that Brent, Maurey and Watkins send a TON of kids to BASIS. There won't be 135 5th grade seats to fill of they are only backfilling from 4th grade BASIS kids. Will those Hill families choose BASIS in K instead of Brent, etc.? If BASIS had a good or great physical space for ES, does that change the answer? If they don't choose BASIS, what does the demographic of BASIS look like without all those white UMC families? Are there enough kids who can hack it at BASIS to fill those spots if the Hill school populations aren't filling them? Could this help the Hill MS to improve without the brain drain? Would people think twice about living on the Hill without the BASIS school safety valve?

I am asking these questions, but I would note that BASIS is not responsible for or to the CH schools. The CH families may think BASIS is "theirs" but it isn't.

This, exactly. Is BASIS really that great, or is it a meh school whose "success" is the result of demographics and of their social promotion policy (and don't forget, shirking on taking kids after 5th like other schools do).

I think this is a very interesting question. My guess is that most Brent/Maury/LT families will not move their kids to BASIS for K just to lock in 5th. They'll already have been at their local ES for 1-2 years and they'll by-and-large have had good experiences, because those schools are good. The kind of families who stick out the Hill are the kind of families who don't prioritize locking in a middle school (or they'd move to NW/Deal/Hardy). BASIS is close, but not close enough to be neighborhood-y for K-4; kids are very different by 5th. Also UMC Hill parents are by and large super involved in the Hill ESes and I just can't see BASIS allowing that, which I think would frustrate those parents. (I think Watkins could cut a bit differently. Families already have to move from Peabody to Watkins in 1st and as UMC families are increasingly reluctant to do that, I think those families might cut out for BASIS in K instead in higher numbers.)

If Brent/Maury/LT shared a middle school, I actually think this could have a positive effect on the local MS almost immediately... since they don't, it'll be a small trickle. SH could be the most affected the most immediately, since LT & Watkins both feed there and not all Watkins kids will bail, even if in larger numbers. I wonder what percentage of slots they'll hold for MS? At first it's going to be all sibling preference and newbies will be shut out entirely unless that percentage is huge. Middle school entry will get even crazier if this is approved.

I'm PP to whom you responded. I think I agree with much of what what you project. One of the things I find amusing is the reflexive responses on DCUM from people who immediately question whether BASIS is appropriate for ES. They have like 40 other schools that already offer K+.

Everyone knows BASIS operates lots of elementary schools. But this country is filled with crappy schools. Existing doesn't mean it's actually good.

https://enrollbasis.com/about-basis-charter-schools/awards-and-rankings/

Objective data says they thrive.

Oh please, let's definitely compare private and selective admissions schools as if they're pure lottery in a high-needs area.

What are you talking about? All BASIS schools are free and lottery. The rankings I pointed to are for BASIS schools. Stop typing; you look more foolish evert time you "contribute".

Ha ha! So quintessentially DCUM. An obnoxious post calling out someone for being wrong while actually being totally wrong themselves!

Come back PP. Let us learn from your infinite wisdom! Tell me how I send my kid to Basis McLean for free!

Times like there I REALLY wish you had to sign your posts. BASIS McLean is not a BASIS Charter school. It is a BASIS Independent School. The former are free and lottery, the latter are for profit and charge tuition. If this concept is too hard for you I will help you out.

Charter Schools (free): https://enrollbasis.com/?src=logo
Independent Schools (tuition): https://basisindependent.com/about/

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:TBH... there is a real risk that BASIS goes down the tubes if it doesn't have a big population of UMC families coming in at 5th.

Oh, don't worry, they will. I would be more concerned about UMC families deserting their in-bounds schools.

Founded in 1998, BASIS has 59 schools, including 43 charter schools. They are the only national charter in DC.

In just a decade BASIS DC went from nothing to the #1 middle school in DC, and admissions gets harder and harder every year.

"The only national charter" whut? What about KIPP?

Check here for waitlist data: https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/aaron2446/viz/MSDCSeatsandWaitlistOfferData_draft/MSDCPublicDisplay

I'm really perplexed why you would say admissions is getting harder and harder. The waitlist this year is shorter than it was in 2020.

Oh, you are right, I forgot about KIPP.

Is this the school?

https://www.washingtoninformer.com/dc-charter-board-plans-review-oversight-in-wake-of-kipp-fraud-scandal-involving-late-mayor/

BASIS only has 135 5th grade seats but sometimes admit 150 off the bat. The percentage that gets in based on the number of seats goes down each year. In the early years. everyone got in. Now, it is much harder, and this year looks like the hardest yet.

In addition, a lot of people self-select for BASIS because it is so rigorous (a lot of parents/kids aren't interested and want an easier school), so the waiting list numbers matter less for BASIS than other more "normal" schools.

Rocketship is also arguably a "national" charter, not really sure how you are defining "national"...

This year is not the hardest yet, not so far anyway. In 2020 135 spots were offered and 218 kids were waitlisted. Ultimately 133 received BASIS offers. This year, 135 spots were offered and 155 kids were waitlisted. With the existence of Latin Cooper, I would expect the waitlist to move quite a bit this year. Time will tell but I don't think this year is harder than 2020.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

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Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I wish they would open up a second middle/high school instead because there are plenty of good elementary schools in DC already and a shortage of good middle and high school options. Also, the BASIS HOS mentioned the second school could potentially share outdoor space and a gym with the current school which would be amazing regardless but more ideal with students similarly aged.

Another thought: With a BASIS elementary school feeding into the middle/high school eventually, it seems eventually less Capitol Hill families would be at BASIS because they have great convenient elementary options already…

This. Hill families, your middle school seats are threatened!

This is a very real issue. Enrollment data shows us that Brent, Maurey and Watkins send a TON of kids to BASIS. There won't be 135 5th grade seats to fill of they are only backfilling from 4th grade BASIS kids. Will those Hill families choose BASIS in K instead of Brent, etc.? If BASIS had a good or great physical space for ES, does that change the answer? If they don't choose BASIS, what does the demographic of BASIS look like without all those white UMC families? Are there enough kids who can hack it at BASIS to fill those spots if the Hill school populations aren't filling them? Could this help the Hill MS to improve without the brain drain? Would people think twice about living on the Hill without the BASIS school safety valve?

I am asking these questions, but I would note that BASIS is not responsible for or to the CH schools. The CH families may think BASIS is "theirs" but it isn't.

This, exactly. Is BASIS really that great, or is it a meh school whose "success" is the result of demographics and of their social promotion policy (and don't forget, shirking on taking kids after 5th like other schools do).

I think this is a very interesting question. My guess is that most Brent/Maury/LT families will not move their kids to BASIS for K just to lock in 5th. They'll already have been at their local ES for 1-2 years and they'll by-and-large have had good experiences, because those schools are good. The kind of families who stick out the Hill are the kind of families who don't prioritize locking in a middle school (or they'd move to NW/Deal/Hardy). BASIS is close, but not close enough to be neighborhood-y for K-4; kids are very different by 5th. Also UMC Hill parents are by and large super involved in the Hill ESes and I just can't see BASIS allowing that, which I think would frustrate those parents. (I think Watkins could cut a bit differently. Families already have to move from Peabody to Watkins in 1st and as UMC families are increasingly reluctant to do that, I think those families might cut out for BASIS in K instead in higher numbers.)

If Brent/Maury/LT shared a middle school, I actually think this could have a positive effect on the local MS almost immediately... since they don't, it'll be a small trickle. SH could be the most affected the most immediately, since LT & Watkins both feed there and not all Watkins kids will bail, even if in larger numbers. I wonder what percentage of slots they'll hold for MS? At first it's going to be all sibling preference and newbies will be shut out entirely unless that percentage is huge. Middle school entry will get even crazier if this is approved.

I'm PP to whom you responded. I think I agree with much of what what you project. One of the things I find amusing is the reflexive responses on DCUM from people who immediately question whether BASIS is appropriate for ES. They have like 40 other schools that already offer K+.

Everyone knows BASIS operates lots of elementary schools. But this country is filled with crappy schools. Existing doesn't mean it's actually good.

https://enrollbasis.com/about-basis-charter-schools/awards-and-rankings/

Objective data says they thrive.

Oh please, let's definitely compare private and selective admissions schools as if they're pure lottery in a high-needs area.

What are you talking about? All BASIS schools are free and lottery. The rankings I pointed to are for BASIS schools. Stop typing; you look more foolish evert time you "contribute".

You are 100% wrong and look really foolish because of your tone in this post. Even in the DMV, Basis McLean is a private school. Basis Brooklyn is a private school. In almost all BASIS locations, students have to pass a placement test (post-lottery) to be placed in a grade and, if a student doesn't pass, their admission is contingent on being willing to repeat the prior grade. You have ABSOLUTELY no idea what you're talking about.

You have conflated the BASIS charter schools with the private for profit BASIS Independent Schools (McLean). The schools on the list I linked to are the charter schools. THEY ARE NOT PRIVATE. Which is why when you misunderstand the difference and accuse someone (incorrectly) of referencing private schools, you look like a fool.

BASIS charter schools take all comers. They absolutely to a test to place kids where they belong. They do not refuse kids based on those results, merely place them appropriately. That is not an "admissions test".

Which BASIS schools have a high proportion of at-risk kids?

Why does BASIS DC perform so much worse than other BASIS schools?

That is a fair question, because it does. Ironically, one of the reasons is because it does not have an ES. All of the other campuses start in ES. I think part of the issue is also what you see here on DCUM. We spend a lot of time in DC on performative nonsense and faux equity that the environment isn't focused on academic excellence as much as other garbage. Look at this forum as an example. Anytime anyone points to BASIS's success people chime in to try and focus on the kids is isn't educating. In DC, people score points not for building things or succeeding, but for tearing them down. I think that makes it much harder for schools to succeed.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I wish they would open up a second middle/high school instead because there are plenty of good elementary schools in DC already and a shortage of good middle and high school options. Also, the BASIS HOS mentioned the second school could potentially share outdoor space and a gym with the current school which would be amazing regardless but more ideal with students similarly aged.

Another thought: With a BASIS elementary school feeding into the middle/high school eventually, it seems eventually less Capitol Hill families would be at BASIS because they have great convenient elementary options already…

This. Hill families, your middle school seats are threatened!

This is a very real issue. Enrollment data shows us that Brent, Maurey and Watkins send a TON of kids to BASIS. There won't be 135 5th grade seats to fill of they are only backfilling from 4th grade BASIS kids. Will those Hill families choose BASIS in K instead of Brent, etc.? If BASIS had a good or great physical space for ES, does that change the answer? If they don't choose BASIS, what does the demographic of BASIS look like without all those white UMC families? Are there enough kids who can hack it at BASIS to fill those spots if the Hill school populations aren't filling them? Could this help the Hill MS to improve without the brain drain? Would people think twice about living on the Hill without the BASIS school safety valve?

I am asking these questions, but I would note that BASIS is not responsible for or to the CH schools. The CH families may think BASIS is "theirs" but it isn't.

This, exactly. Is BASIS really that great, or is it a meh school whose "success" is the result of demographics and of their social promotion policy (and don't forget, shirking on taking kids after 5th like other schools do).

I think this is a very interesting question. My guess is that most Brent/Maury/LT families will not move their kids to BASIS for K just to lock in 5th. They'll already have been at their local ES for 1-2 years and they'll by-and-large have had good experiences, because those schools are good. The kind of families who stick out the Hill are the kind of families who don't prioritize locking in a middle school (or they'd move to NW/Deal/Hardy). BASIS is close, but not close enough to be neighborhood-y for K-4; kids are very different by 5th. Also UMC Hill parents are by and large super involved in the Hill ESes and I just can't see BASIS allowing that, which I think would frustrate those parents. (I think Watkins could cut a bit differently. Families already have to move from Peabody to Watkins in 1st and as UMC families are increasingly reluctant to do that, I think those families might cut out for BASIS in K instead in higher numbers.)

If Brent/Maury/LT shared a middle school, I actually think this could have a positive effect on the local MS almost immediately... since they don't, it'll be a small trickle. SH could be the most affected the most immediately, since LT & Watkins both feed there and not all Watkins kids will bail, even if in larger numbers. I wonder what percentage of slots they'll hold for MS? At first it's going to be all sibling preference and newbies will be shut out entirely unless that percentage is huge. Middle school entry will get even crazier if this is approved.

I'm PP to whom you responded. I think I agree with much of what what you project. One of the things I find amusing is the reflexive responses on DCUM from people who immediately question whether BASIS is appropriate for ES. They have like 40 other schools that already offer K+.

Everyone knows BASIS operates lots of elementary schools. But this country is filled with crappy schools. Existing doesn't mean it's actually good.

https://enrollbasis.com/about-basis-charter-schools/awards-and-rankings/

Objective data says they thrive.

Oh please, let's definitely compare private and selective admissions schools as if they're pure lottery in a high-needs area.

What are you talking about? All BASIS schools are free and lottery. The rankings I pointed to are for BASIS schools. Stop typing; you look more foolish evert time you "contribute".

You are 100% wrong and look really foolish because of your tone in this post. Even in the DMV, Basis McLean is a private school. Basis Brooklyn is a private school. In almost all BASIS locations, students have to pass a placement test (post-lottery) to be placed in a grade and, if a student doesn't pass, their admission is contingent on being willing to repeat the prior grade. You have ABSOLUTELY no idea what you're talking about.

You have conflated the BASIS charter schools with the private for profit BASIS Independent Schools (McLean). The schools on the list I linked to are the charter schools. THEY ARE NOT PRIVATE. Which is why when you misunderstand the difference and accuse someone (incorrectly) of referencing private schools, you look like a fool.

BASIS charter schools take all comers. They absolutely to a test to place kids where they belong. They do not refuse kids based on those results, merely place them appropriately. That is not an "admissions test".

Which BASIS schools have a high proportion of at-risk kids?

Why does BASIS DC perform so much worse than other BASIS schools?

That is a fair question, because it does. Ironically, one of the reasons is because it does not have an ES. All of the other campuses start in ES. I think part of the issue is also what you see here on DCUM. We spend a lot of time in DC on performative nonsense and faux equity that the environment isn't focused on academic excellence as much as other garbage. Look at this forum as an example. Anytime anyone points to BASIS's success people chime in to try and focus on the kids is isn't educating. In DC, people score points not for building things or succeeding, but for tearing them down. I think that makes it much harder for schools to succeed.

Oh come on. You have to understand the "focus on kids it isn't educating" isn't just to tear down BASIS. It's to point out that BASIS' demographics are different from many other schools', and that it isn't meaningful to do comparisons that don't account for that. Witness how Deal and Hardy parents are not exactly beating down BASIS' door or clamoring for a BASIS in their neighborhood. That's because it isn't actually better.

What this city needs is schools that can effectively educate a low-income, high-trauma, high-special needs student body. I think it would be a waste to dedicate a building to a school that, whether they admit it or not, focuses on UMC students without special needs. That's not what we're most in need of.