Is there a MoCo equivalent to Duke Ellington School for the Arts?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I don't think it's to the level you're describing/hoping for but from what I gathered, Northwood HS was the Arts option for the Downcounty Consortium (DCC):

https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/school-info/downcounty/northwood/

The Academy of Music, Theater and Dance (AMTAD)

This academy is geared toward students interested in pursuing college and professional careers in the areas of theater, dance, vocal music, and instrumental music. In either solo or group performances, students will produce, act, and perform in a variety of onstage productions. Coursework within the academy is designed to develop the student through the dance and performing arts pathways with focus on technical production, vocal and instrumental music, dance, and dramatics. Students in all academy strands will be integrally involved in all aspects of production, giving students a solid foundation for advanced preparation within the field. The Dance Pathway gives students a strong background in multiple dance styles such as Jazz, Modern, and Ballet. This pathway also provides opportunities for master classes, field trips and choreographic development. The Performing Arts Pathway gives students a strong background in multiple disciplines. Students in this pathway have the opportunity to take a variety of classes in the performing arts field, such as band, chorus, dance and theatre. Students also have the opportunity to focus solely on one discipline.

Honestly, it’s hard to see Northwood getting the theater or dance programs when Einstein’s are just stronger. Without extra funding, it makes way more sense to give Einstein all the regional arts programs, just like Blake and Woodward. Hopefully, Einstein PACE is already talking about advocating for this.

Northwood has both a good dance and theater program. Why do Einstein's parents have to put down other schools and students?

Enough with the dramatics. I never said Northwood didn’t. However, Einstein has a stronger program in all disciplines of the arts and there’s no denying it. Einstein should have dance, theater, added to its regional program.

None, it’s not necessarily stronger. Einstein has dance and theater. Theater has a strong teacher but she will probably not stay. The issue is staffing. You can put the programs in but without more staff and funding it’s meaningless. The pta and booster clubs don’t fundraise enough to provide and the current group of parents are ok with only doing the minimum.

Einstein dance program is actually very strong. I’m not sure where you getting this information.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I don't think it's to the level you're describing/hoping for but from what I gathered, Northwood HS was the Arts option for the Downcounty Consortium (DCC):

https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/school-info/downcounty/northwood/

The Academy of Music, Theater and Dance (AMTAD)

This academy is geared toward students interested in pursuing college and professional careers in the areas of theater, dance, vocal music, and instrumental music. In either solo or group performances, students will produce, act, and perform in a variety of onstage productions. Coursework within the academy is designed to develop the student through the dance and performing arts pathways with focus on technical production, vocal and instrumental music, dance, and dramatics. Students in all academy strands will be integrally involved in all aspects of production, giving students a solid foundation for advanced preparation within the field. The Dance Pathway gives students a strong background in multiple dance styles such as Jazz, Modern, and Ballet. This pathway also provides opportunities for master classes, field trips and choreographic development. The Performing Arts Pathway gives students a strong background in multiple disciplines. Students in this pathway have the opportunity to take a variety of classes in the performing arts field, such as band, chorus, dance and theatre. Students also have the opportunity to focus solely on one discipline.

Honestly, it’s hard to see Northwood getting the theater or dance programs when Einstein’s are just stronger. Without extra funding, it makes way more sense to give Einstein all the regional arts programs, just like Blake and Woodward. Hopefully, Einstein PACE is already talking about advocating for this.

These are arts programs on paper only as none of the schools are getting more staff or funding specifically for the arts. All schools should have strong arts, humanities and stem.

No one is denying this. However, this is what’s on the table. Einstein has built a strong arts program with what they have. To keep Einstein in the conversation, they should retain what they’ve built.

Look, with the DCC being disbanded, the whole game changes. If Einstein doesn’t get the regional arts designation, they just have to double down on their own turf. They can use the VAC’s and S.T.A.G.E reputation to carry the rest of the arts programs and basically build a 'shadow magnet' culture. They can make VAPA an elite audition base PA program within its own school. That way, their public product stays so sharp that a brand-new regional program at Northwood or Woodward won't even be able to compete.

You may not draw the students you think it will as the academics are lacking and will get worse with the student reduction. Several of the higher level teachers are leaving this year. And, it woukd be impossible without more staff. The music and theatre teachers don’t have time to add more classes. The principal is never going to agree to reallocating teachers to the arts. Einstein is going to go down hill fast. We don’t plan to send our youngest there due to the academics.

I’ve seen a couple mentions of several higher level teachers leaving Einstein, but I have only heard of one actual name. Who else is leaving? (I have two kids at Einstein)

[Anonymous]

What do you mean by higher level teachers leaving Einstein? Do you mean teachers who teach advanced level courses? Why are they leaving and where are they going?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I don't think it's to the level you're describing/hoping for but from what I gathered, Northwood HS was the Arts option for the Downcounty Consortium (DCC):

https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/school-info/downcounty/northwood/

The Academy of Music, Theater and Dance (AMTAD)

This academy is geared toward students interested in pursuing college and professional careers in the areas of theater, dance, vocal music, and instrumental music. In either solo or group performances, students will produce, act, and perform in a variety of onstage productions. Coursework within the academy is designed to develop the student through the dance and performing arts pathways with focus on technical production, vocal and instrumental music, dance, and dramatics. Students in all academy strands will be integrally involved in all aspects of production, giving students a solid foundation for advanced preparation within the field. The Dance Pathway gives students a strong background in multiple dance styles such as Jazz, Modern, and Ballet. This pathway also provides opportunities for master classes, field trips and choreographic development. The Performing Arts Pathway gives students a strong background in multiple disciplines. Students in this pathway have the opportunity to take a variety of classes in the performing arts field, such as band, chorus, dance and theatre. Students also have the opportunity to focus solely on one discipline.

Honestly, it’s hard to see Northwood getting the theater or dance programs when Einstein’s are just stronger. Without extra funding, it makes way more sense to give Einstein all the regional arts programs, just like Blake and Woodward. Hopefully, Einstein PACE is already talking about advocating for this.

Northwood has both a good dance and theater program. Why do Einstein's parents have to put down other schools and students?

Enough with the dramatics. I never said Northwood didn’t. However, Einstein has a stronger program in all disciplines of the arts and there’s no denying it. Einstein should have dance, theater, added to its regional program.

None, it’s not necessarily stronger. Einstein has dance and theater. Theater has a strong teacher but she will probably not stay. The issue is staffing. You can put the programs in but without more staff and funding it’s meaningless. The pta and booster clubs don’t fundraise enough to provide and the current group of parents are ok with only doing the minimum.

Einstein dance program is actually very strong. I’m not sure where you getting this information.

Boosters and PTAs can’t fund staff.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I don't think it's to the level you're describing/hoping for but from what I gathered, Northwood HS was the Arts option for the Downcounty Consortium (DCC):

https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/school-info/downcounty/northwood/

The Academy of Music, Theater and Dance (AMTAD)

This academy is geared toward students interested in pursuing college and professional careers in the areas of theater, dance, vocal music, and instrumental music. In either solo or group performances, students will produce, act, and perform in a variety of onstage productions. Coursework within the academy is designed to develop the student through the dance and performing arts pathways with focus on technical production, vocal and instrumental music, dance, and dramatics. Students in all academy strands will be integrally involved in all aspects of production, giving students a solid foundation for advanced preparation within the field. The Dance Pathway gives students a strong background in multiple dance styles such as Jazz, Modern, and Ballet. This pathway also provides opportunities for master classes, field trips and choreographic development. The Performing Arts Pathway gives students a strong background in multiple disciplines. Students in this pathway have the opportunity to take a variety of classes in the performing arts field, such as band, chorus, dance and theatre. Students also have the opportunity to focus solely on one discipline.

Honestly, it’s hard to see Northwood getting the theater or dance programs when Einstein’s are just stronger. Without extra funding, it makes way more sense to give Einstein all the regional arts programs, just like Blake and Woodward. Hopefully, Einstein PACE is already talking about advocating for this.

Northwood has both a good dance and theater program. Why do Einstein's parents have to put down other schools and students?

Enough with the dramatics. I never said Northwood didn’t. However, Einstein has a stronger program in all disciplines of the arts and there’s no denying it. Einstein should have dance, theater, added to its regional program.

None, it’s not necessarily stronger. Einstein has dance and theater. Theater has a strong teacher but she will probably not stay. The issue is staffing. You can put the programs in but without more staff and funding it’s meaningless. The pta and booster clubs don’t fundraise enough to provide and the current group of parents are ok with only doing the minimum.

Einstein dance program is actually very strong. I’m not sure where you getting this information.

Boosters and PTAs can’t fund staff.

Dance parent here. I’m very happy with Einstein dance program. There’s many opportunities for the students.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I don't think it's to the level you're describing/hoping for but from what I gathered, Northwood HS was the Arts option for the Downcounty Consortium (DCC):

https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/school-info/downcounty/northwood/

The Academy of Music, Theater and Dance (AMTAD)

This academy is geared toward students interested in pursuing college and professional careers in the areas of theater, dance, vocal music, and instrumental music. In either solo or group performances, students will produce, act, and perform in a variety of onstage productions. Coursework within the academy is designed to develop the student through the dance and performing arts pathways with focus on technical production, vocal and instrumental music, dance, and dramatics. Students in all academy strands will be integrally involved in all aspects of production, giving students a solid foundation for advanced preparation within the field. The Dance Pathway gives students a strong background in multiple dance styles such as Jazz, Modern, and Ballet. This pathway also provides opportunities for master classes, field trips and choreographic development. The Performing Arts Pathway gives students a strong background in multiple disciplines. Students in this pathway have the opportunity to take a variety of classes in the performing arts field, such as band, chorus, dance and theatre. Students also have the opportunity to focus solely on one discipline.

Honestly, it’s hard to see Northwood getting the theater or dance programs when Einstein’s are just stronger. Without extra funding, it makes way more sense to give Einstein all the regional arts programs, just like Blake and Woodward. Hopefully, Einstein PACE is already talking about advocating for this.

These are arts programs on paper only as none of the schools are getting more staff or funding specifically for the arts. All schools should have strong arts, humanities and stem.

No one is denying this. However, this is what’s on the table. Einstein has built a strong arts program with what they have. To keep Einstein in the conversation, they should retain what they’ve built.

Look, with the DCC being disbanded, the whole game changes. If Einstein doesn’t get the regional arts designation, they just have to double down on their own turf. They can use the VAC’s and S.T.A.G.E reputation to carry the rest of the arts programs and basically build a 'shadow magnet' culture. They can make VAPA an elite audition base PA program within its own school. That way, their public product stays so sharp that a brand-new regional program at Northwood or Woodward won't even be able to compete.

You may not draw the students you think it will as the academics are lacking and will get worse with the student reduction. Several of the higher level teachers are leaving this year. And, it woukd be impossible without more staff. The music and theatre teachers don’t have time to add more classes. The principal is never going to agree to reallocating teachers to the arts. Einstein is going to go down hill fast. We don’t plan to send our youngest there due to the academics.

I’ve seen a couple mentions of several higher level teachers leaving Einstein, but I have only heard of one actual name. Who else is leaving? (I have two kids at Einstein)

OP has a one sided bitterness towards Mr. Mark Brown. It’s very odd.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I don't think it's to the level you're describing/hoping for but from what I gathered, Northwood HS was the Arts option for the Downcounty Consortium (DCC):

https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/school-info/downcounty/northwood/

The Academy of Music, Theater and Dance (AMTAD)

This academy is geared toward students interested in pursuing college and professional careers in the areas of theater, dance, vocal music, and instrumental music. In either solo or group performances, students will produce, act, and perform in a variety of onstage productions. Coursework within the academy is designed to develop the student through the dance and performing arts pathways with focus on technical production, vocal and instrumental music, dance, and dramatics. Students in all academy strands will be integrally involved in all aspects of production, giving students a solid foundation for advanced preparation within the field. The Dance Pathway gives students a strong background in multiple dance styles such as Jazz, Modern, and Ballet. This pathway also provides opportunities for master classes, field trips and choreographic development. The Performing Arts Pathway gives students a strong background in multiple disciplines. Students in this pathway have the opportunity to take a variety of classes in the performing arts field, such as band, chorus, dance and theatre. Students also have the opportunity to focus solely on one discipline.

Honestly, it’s hard to see Northwood getting the theater or dance programs when Einstein’s are just stronger. Without extra funding, it makes way more sense to give Einstein all the regional arts programs, just like Blake and Woodward. Hopefully, Einstein PACE is already talking about advocating for this.

These are arts programs on paper only as none of the schools are getting more staff or funding specifically for the arts. All schools should have strong arts, humanities and stem.

No one is denying this. However, this is what’s on the table. Einstein has built a strong arts program with what they have. To keep Einstein in the conversation, they should retain what they’ve built.

Look, with the DCC being disbanded, the whole game changes. If Einstein doesn’t get the regional arts designation, they just have to double down on their own turf. They can use the VAC’s and S.T.A.G.E reputation to carry the rest of the arts programs and basically build a 'shadow magnet' culture. They can make VAPA an elite audition base PA program within its own school. That way, their public product stays so sharp that a brand-new regional program at Northwood or Woodward won't even be able to compete.

You may not draw the students you think it will as the academics are lacking and will get worse with the student reduction. Several of the higher level teachers are leaving this year. And, it woukd be impossible without more staff. The music and theatre teachers don’t have time to add more classes. The principal is never going to agree to reallocating teachers to the arts. Einstein is going to go down hill fast. We don’t plan to send our youngest there due to the academics.

I’ve seen a couple mentions of several higher level teachers leaving Einstein, but I have only heard of one actual name. Who else is leaving? (I have two kids at Einstein)

One of the good math teachers is leaving for another school. I don't name names online.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I don't think it's to the level you're describing/hoping for but from what I gathered, Northwood HS was the Arts option for the Downcounty Consortium (DCC):

https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/school-info/downcounty/northwood/

The Academy of Music, Theater and Dance (AMTAD)

This academy is geared toward students interested in pursuing college and professional careers in the areas of theater, dance, vocal music, and instrumental music. In either solo or group performances, students will produce, act, and perform in a variety of onstage productions. Coursework within the academy is designed to develop the student through the dance and performing arts pathways with focus on technical production, vocal and instrumental music, dance, and dramatics. Students in all academy strands will be integrally involved in all aspects of production, giving students a solid foundation for advanced preparation within the field. The Dance Pathway gives students a strong background in multiple dance styles such as Jazz, Modern, and Ballet. This pathway also provides opportunities for master classes, field trips and choreographic development. The Performing Arts Pathway gives students a strong background in multiple disciplines. Students in this pathway have the opportunity to take a variety of classes in the performing arts field, such as band, chorus, dance and theatre. Students also have the opportunity to focus solely on one discipline.

Honestly, it’s hard to see Northwood getting the theater or dance programs when Einstein’s are just stronger. Without extra funding, it makes way more sense to give Einstein all the regional arts programs, just like Blake and Woodward. Hopefully, Einstein PACE is already talking about advocating for this.

Northwood has both a good dance and theater program. Why do Einstein's parents have to put down other schools and students?

Enough with the dramatics. I never said Northwood didn’t. However, Einstein has a stronger program in all disciplines of the arts and there’s no denying it. Einstein should have dance, theater, added to its regional program.

None, it’s not necessarily stronger. Einstein has dance and theater. Theater has a strong teacher but she will probably not stay. The issue is staffing. You can put the programs in but without more staff and funding it’s meaningless. The pta and booster clubs don’t fundraise enough to provide and the current group of parents are ok with only doing the minimum.

Einstein dance program is actually very strong. I’m not sure where you getting this information.

Boosters and PTAs can’t fund staff.

No, they can fund supplies, uniforms, props, etc. Not everything is just staff.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:No, but your kid can apply to Duke Ellington and could be accepted as an out of District resident. You’d have to pay tuition though, or move to DC.

Nothing MCPS has compares with that. But I also know from parents at Duke Ellington that the academics aren’t great, so you’d be giving up quite a bit to have your kid attend it.

I know students this year going from Duke to Yale, Hopkins and Smith.

Not saying this is across the board - but I think it might be improving

That is definitely not the norm. People in DC whose kids are serious about academics generally avoid Duke Ellington even when they are very talented.

They are probably going for arts, not academics. Most of the talented kids do outside Mcps. YAA, MCYO, PVYO, etc.

Agree. Those who are serious about academics go with a stronger school and do arts outside of school. Duke Ellington is good for those who are serious about arts but not academics.

Yeah, that's not true at all. MOST art students are actually very passionate about their art AND academics as well. MOST students want a school that excels in both. They shouldn't have to choose and they aren't doing that at Duke Ellington, but please pretend you know more about this.

Duke Ellington is rigorous. PP knows nothing, for sure.

Hello! Former Duke Ellington and Einstein parent here.

My oldest graduated from Duke Ellington in 2013. My family then moved to the Kensington/Bethesda area in 2019, and my second child went to Einstein.It’s true that Einstein doesn’t hold up to Duke Ellington in some disciplines of the arts, but I would not say that the academics at Ellington are better than Einstein. I will never forget when my oldest told me that a lot of her peers had a hard time reading simple passages during her freshman year. DCPS was a nightmare to deal with, and it was actually one of the reasons we left the district.I think it’s unfair to compare Einstein to Ellington simply because Ellington can afford its staff and facilities through both government funding and paid partnerships. The arts are not cheap, and Ellington kids get much more training throughout the school day. Even then, my daughter still had to do training outside of school because her teachers strongly encouraged it.

My son went to Einstein, and we loved it. Yes, he did training after school, but he most likely would have had to do that even if he had gotten into Ellington. I know this might be an unpopular opinion that gets downvoted, but I was very impressed by Einstein's academics (both AP and IB). They have a lot to offer that Ellington simply didn't.

I also liked how seriously Einstein took the VAPA program. They have a dedicated website, an orientation video of the program, and everything.Neither school is a bad choice for the arts, but we will be sending my youngest to Einstein. If Einstein parents want a stronger VAPA program or more courses, the key is seeking out extra funding.

Maybe a Facebook booster group should be created to get that started!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:With Northwood getting the "Dance" pathway for 2027-28 and beyond, will this degrade/move teachers away from the dance program at Einstein? I know MCPS keeps saying every school can keep their existing "local" programs, but I'm confused as to what that means. I can't imagine there are a ton of high level dance teachers to go around.

No, there is no additional funding attached to these programs—it's really just the designation itself. Einstein is actually adding a lot of improvements to their dance program. The issue is that Einstein has a stronger arts program than Northwood, and many students want access to those opportunities even if Einstein is not their home school.

Since the regional programs have not been finalized yet, we'll have to wait and see which schools receive which programs.

Both are very good with arts. It will depend each year on the students there.

It’s less about the students and more about the training and opportunities that each schools offers. Einstein should have the full arts regional program so students can take advantage of the opportunities.

No, it's about the students. Einstein doesn't have the full arts now as the principal doesn't support it. They'd need to allocate a few more teachers for it to be a full arts regional and given the lack of academics its not going to draw students from other schools who are into stem and other specialties. A bunch of students drop out senior year to go to MC due to the lack of offerings.

Many of the students are good, but if you compare them to other schools, they are average. The higher-level arts students are all doing outside programs and private lessons. The talented theater student last year was in YAA, taking private lessons and more. You don't get that good at an MCPS school alone.

What are you talking about? VAPA helped my child get scholarships to participate in YAA. I understand you’re upset with Mr. Brown but VAPA has been nothing but a positive experience for me and my child.

You do realize everyone's experience is different. Your child could have easily gotten to YAA without VAPA and gotten scholarships. But, its much harder when you start in high school vs. starting in elementary school or middle school. Glad your child is in YAA as it's a great program. We aren't that impressed with VAPA.

Both of my kids got into YAA without attending VAPA. If a kid has talent, they really don't need a specialized program like VAPA. Both kids took voice lessons and participated in high school chorus and shows but that was it. YAA was fabulous. I highly recommend it.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I don't think it's to the level you're describing/hoping for but from what I gathered, Northwood HS was the Arts option for the Downcounty Consortium (DCC):

https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/school-info/downcounty/northwood/

The Academy of Music, Theater and Dance (AMTAD)

This academy is geared toward students interested in pursuing college and professional careers in the areas of theater, dance, vocal music, and instrumental music. In either solo or group performances, students will produce, act, and perform in a variety of onstage productions. Coursework within the academy is designed to develop the student through the dance and performing arts pathways with focus on technical production, vocal and instrumental music, dance, and dramatics. Students in all academy strands will be integrally involved in all aspects of production, giving students a solid foundation for advanced preparation within the field. The Dance Pathway gives students a strong background in multiple dance styles such as Jazz, Modern, and Ballet. This pathway also provides opportunities for master classes, field trips and choreographic development. The Performing Arts Pathway gives students a strong background in multiple disciplines. Students in this pathway have the opportunity to take a variety of classes in the performing arts field, such as band, chorus, dance and theatre. Students also have the opportunity to focus solely on one discipline.

Honestly, it’s hard to see Northwood getting the theater or dance programs when Einstein’s are just stronger. Without extra funding, it makes way more sense to give Einstein all the regional arts programs, just like Blake and Woodward. Hopefully, Einstein PACE is already talking about advocating for this.

These are arts programs on paper only as none of the schools are getting more staff or funding specifically for the arts. All schools should have strong arts, humanities and stem.

No one is denying this. However, this is what’s on the table. Einstein has built a strong arts program with what they have. To keep Einstein in the conversation, they should retain what they’ve built.

Look, with the DCC being disbanded, the whole game changes. If Einstein doesn’t get the regional arts designation, they just have to double down on their own turf. They can use the VAC’s and S.T.A.G.E reputation to carry the rest of the arts programs and basically build a 'shadow magnet' culture. They can make VAPA an elite audition base PA program within its own school. That way, their public product stays so sharp that a brand-new regional program at Northwood or Woodward won't even be able to compete.

You may not draw the students you think it will as the academics are lacking and will get worse with the student reduction. Several of the higher level teachers are leaving this year. And, it woukd be impossible without more staff. The music and theatre teachers don’t have time to add more classes. The principal is never going to agree to reallocating teachers to the arts. Einstein is going to go down hill fast. We don’t plan to send our youngest there due to the academics.

I’ve seen a couple mentions of several higher level teachers leaving Einstein, but I have only heard of one actual name. Who else is leaving? (I have two kids at Einstein)

OP has a one sided bitterness towards Mr. Mark Brown. It’s very odd.

I’m not the PP and have no experience with the dance department, but a lot of experience being ignored by Mr Brown. The only way to get things done is to go straight to Taylor unfortunately. Last OTSA meeting Brown openly applogized for not reading emails.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:No, but your kid can apply to Duke Ellington and could be accepted as an out of District resident. You’d have to pay tuition though, or move to DC.

Nothing MCPS has compares with that. But I also know from parents at Duke Ellington that the academics aren’t great, so you’d be giving up quite a bit to have your kid attend it.

I know students this year going from Duke to Yale, Hopkins and Smith.

Not saying this is across the board - but I think it might be improving

That is definitely not the norm. People in DC whose kids are serious about academics generally avoid Duke Ellington even when they are very talented.

They are probably going for arts, not academics. Most of the talented kids do outside Mcps. YAA, MCYO, PVYO, etc.

Agree. Those who are serious about academics go with a stronger school and do arts outside of school. Duke Ellington is good for those who are serious about arts but not academics.

Yeah, that's not true at all. MOST art students are actually very passionate about their art AND academics as well. MOST students want a school that excels in both. They shouldn't have to choose and they aren't doing that at Duke Ellington, but please pretend you know more about this.

Duke Ellington is rigorous. PP knows nothing, for sure.

Hello! Former Duke Ellington and Einstein parent here.

My oldest graduated from Duke Ellington in 2013. My family then moved to the Kensington/Bethesda area in 2019, and my second child went to Einstein.It’s true that Einstein doesn’t hold up to Duke Ellington in some disciplines of the arts, but I would not say that the academics at Ellington are better than Einstein. I will never forget when my oldest told me that a lot of her peers had a hard time reading simple passages during her freshman year. DCPS was a nightmare to deal with, and it was actually one of the reasons we left the district.I think it’s unfair to compare Einstein to Ellington simply because Ellington can afford its staff and facilities through both government funding and paid partnerships. The arts are not cheap, and Ellington kids get much more training throughout the school day. Even then, my daughter still had to do training outside of school because her teachers strongly encouraged it.

My son went to Einstein, and we loved it. Yes, he did training after school, but he most likely would have had to do that even if he had gotten into Ellington. I know this might be an unpopular opinion that gets downvoted, but I was very impressed by Einstein's academics (both AP and IB). They have a lot to offer that Ellington simply didn't.

I also liked how seriously Einstein took the VAPA program. They have a dedicated website, an orientation video of the program, and everything.Neither school is a bad choice for the arts, but we will be sending my youngest to Einstein. If Einstein parents want a stronger VAPA program or more courses, the key is seeking out extra funding.

Maybe a Facebook booster group should be created to get that started!

This was very insightful! Thank you. We could be working with the academy head and see what steps we can take to find additional funding.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:No, but your kid can apply to Duke Ellington and could be accepted as an out of District resident. You’d have to pay tuition though, or move to DC.

Nothing MCPS has compares with that. But I also know from parents at Duke Ellington that the academics aren’t great, so you’d be giving up quite a bit to have your kid attend it.

I know students this year going from Duke to Yale, Hopkins and Smith.

Not saying this is across the board - but I think it might be improving

That is definitely not the norm. People in DC whose kids are serious about academics generally avoid Duke Ellington even when they are very talented.

They are probably going for arts, not academics. Most of the talented kids do outside Mcps. YAA, MCYO, PVYO, etc.

Agree. Those who are serious about academics go with a stronger school and do arts outside of school. Duke Ellington is good for those who are serious about arts but not academics.

Yeah, that's not true at all. MOST art students are actually very passionate about their art AND academics as well. MOST students want a school that excels in both. They shouldn't have to choose and they aren't doing that at Duke Ellington, but please pretend you know more about this.

Duke Ellington is rigorous. PP knows nothing, for sure.

Hello! Former Duke Ellington and Einstein parent here.

My oldest graduated from Duke Ellington in 2013. My family then moved to the Kensington/Bethesda area in 2019, and my second child went to Einstein.It’s true that Einstein doesn’t hold up to Duke Ellington in some disciplines of the arts, but I would not say that the academics at Ellington are better than Einstein. I will never forget when my oldest told me that a lot of her peers had a hard time reading simple passages during her freshman year. DCPS was a nightmare to deal with, and it was actually one of the reasons we left the district.I think it’s unfair to compare Einstein to Ellington simply because Ellington can afford its staff and facilities through both government funding and paid partnerships. The arts are not cheap, and Ellington kids get much more training throughout the school day. Even then, my daughter still had to do training outside of school because her teachers strongly encouraged it.

My son went to Einstein, and we loved it. Yes, he did training after school, but he most likely would have had to do that even if he had gotten into Ellington. I know this might be an unpopular opinion that gets downvoted, but I was very impressed by Einstein's academics (both AP and IB). They have a lot to offer that Ellington simply didn't.

I also liked how seriously Einstein took the VAPA program. They have a dedicated website, an orientation video of the program, and everything.Neither school is a bad choice for the arts, but we will be sending my youngest to Einstein. If Einstein parents want a stronger VAPA program or more courses, the key is seeking out extra funding.

Maybe a Facebook booster group should be created to get that started!

This was very insightful! Thank you. We could be working with the academy head and see what steps we can take to find additional funding.

Einstein probably has much stronger academics than Ellington. However, things have changed since 2019 and many AP and other classes have been removed and the course offerings are limited. The students are forced to go to MC, which is an issue with schedules and after-school activities, and classes that also meet after school. Many kids are forced to drop activities and sports in their junior and senior years to go to MC. The parents who talk about things from 5+ years ago are not giving an accurate picture of what is going on now. Einstein could be a great school and if they improved the academic offerings more of the smarter kids in the area would stay, which would help.

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Anonymous wrote:No, but your kid can apply to Duke Ellington and could be accepted as an out of District resident. You’d have to pay tuition though, or move to DC.

Nothing MCPS has compares with that. But I also know from parents at Duke Ellington that the academics aren’t great, so you’d be giving up quite a bit to have your kid attend it.

I know students this year going from Duke to Yale, Hopkins and Smith.

Not saying this is across the board - but I think it might be improving

That is definitely not the norm. People in DC whose kids are serious about academics generally avoid Duke Ellington even when they are very talented.

They are probably going for arts, not academics. Most of the talented kids do outside Mcps. YAA, MCYO, PVYO, etc.

Agree. Those who are serious about academics go with a stronger school and do arts outside of school. Duke Ellington is good for those who are serious about arts but not academics.

Yeah, that's not true at all. MOST art students are actually very passionate about their art AND academics as well. MOST students want a school that excels in both. They shouldn't have to choose and they aren't doing that at Duke Ellington, but please pretend you know more about this.

Duke Ellington is rigorous. PP knows nothing, for sure.

Hello! Former Duke Ellington and Einstein parent here.

My oldest graduated from Duke Ellington in 2013. My family then moved to the Kensington/Bethesda area in 2019, and my second child went to Einstein.It’s true that Einstein doesn’t hold up to Duke Ellington in some disciplines of the arts, but I would not say that the academics at Ellington are better than Einstein. I will never forget when my oldest told me that a lot of her peers had a hard time reading simple passages during her freshman year. DCPS was a nightmare to deal with, and it was actually one of the reasons we left the district.I think it’s unfair to compare Einstein to Ellington simply because Ellington can afford its staff and facilities through both government funding and paid partnerships. The arts are not cheap, and Ellington kids get much more training throughout the school day. Even then, my daughter still had to do training outside of school because her teachers strongly encouraged it.

My son went to Einstein, and we loved it. Yes, he did training after school, but he most likely would have had to do that even if he had gotten into Ellington. I know this might be an unpopular opinion that gets downvoted, but I was very impressed by Einstein's academics (both AP and IB). They have a lot to offer that Ellington simply didn't.

I also liked how seriously Einstein took the VAPA program. They have a dedicated website, an orientation video of the program, and everything.Neither school is a bad choice for the arts, but we will be sending my youngest to Einstein. If Einstein parents want a stronger VAPA program or more courses, the key is seeking out extra funding.

Maybe a Facebook booster group should be created to get that started!

This was very insightful! Thank you. We could be working with the academy head and see what steps we can take to find additional funding.

I don't think you get how this works. A school gets a set amount of money. How teachers are allocated is up to the principal, and the principal has been clear that he will not allocate more teachers to the arts or advanced classes. The only thing you can do is raise funds to support the teachers' and students' needs for the arts and other activities. When Einstein has a reduction in students due to the regional model, Einstein will lose more teachers, which will put these programs at even more risk for cuts or elimination. Many parents have tried to demand more classes the kids want and need and the principal ignores emails, refuses to respond or just says no.

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Anonymous wrote:With Northwood getting the "Dance" pathway for 2027-28 and beyond, will this degrade/move teachers away from the dance program at Einstein? I know MCPS keeps saying every school can keep their existing "local" programs, but I'm confused as to what that means. I can't imagine there are a ton of high level dance teachers to go around.

No, there is no additional funding attached to these programs—it's really just the designation itself. Einstein is actually adding a lot of improvements to their dance program. The issue is that Einstein has a stronger arts program than Northwood, and many students want access to those opportunities even if Einstein is not their home school.

Since the regional programs have not been finalized yet, we'll have to wait and see which schools receive which programs.

Both are very good with arts. It will depend each year on the students there.

It’s less about the students and more about the training and opportunities that each schools offers. Einstein should have the full arts regional program so students can take advantage of the opportunities.

No, it's about the students. Einstein doesn't have the full arts now as the principal doesn't support it. They'd need to allocate a few more teachers for it to be a full arts regional and given the lack of academics its not going to draw students from other schools who are into stem and other specialties. A bunch of students drop out senior year to go to MC due to the lack of offerings.

Many of the students are good, but if you compare them to other schools, they are average. The higher-level arts students are all doing outside programs and private lessons. The talented theater student last year was in YAA, taking private lessons and more. You don't get that good at an MCPS school alone.

What are you talking about? VAPA helped my child get scholarships to participate in YAA. I understand you’re upset with Mr. Brown but VAPA has been nothing but a positive experience for me and my child.

You do realize everyone's experience is different. Your child could have easily gotten to YAA without VAPA and gotten scholarships. But, its much harder when you start in high school vs. starting in elementary school or middle school. Glad your child is in YAA as it's a great program. We aren't that impressed with VAPA.

Both of my kids got into YAA without attending VAPA. If a kid has talent, they really don't need a specialized program like VAPA. Both kids took voice lessons and participated in high school chorus and shows but that was it. YAA was fabulous. I highly recommend it.

+1, same for some of the other outside groups. My kids got into them in elementary and middle school. VAPA is just a label for the arts program and a group of classes. VAC is the only test in the program that requires a lot of talent. Anyone can join VAPA, well, technically, as many kids apply and for what ever reason don't get signed up. One of my kids applied multiple times and I reached out multiple times after they did and no response, no entry into VAPA. Thankfully, they didn't need it to graduate, as they were never placed in it.