We are also at H.D. Cooke. We were initially reluctant to take the spot when we were matched last year because, like you OP, the test scores scared us. But it's our neighborhood school, and when we toured, we were impressed with what we saw in the classrooms--the teachers seemed great, and the kids seemed to be learning in very much a play-based manner. Our main concern were the test scores and also that the principal at the time--who has since left--did not seem at all concerned about them or have a plan to ensure that the kids were really learning what they should in the upper grades. We accepted the spot with an open mind, knowing that the PK3/PK4/K experience is often different from higher grades at school. Over the summer, DCPS put in place a new principal. Ms. Larkin has really turned around the school. She put in place a system called PBIS that is focused on social-emotional development. It has really helped the kids, especially those in the upper grades who were acting out before because they didn't have clear boundaries. She also has had the teachers use the interim assessments to really understand where kids are behind and to change their teaching methods to ensure that those are the areas they are targeting. In addition, she meets weekly with all the teachers across each grade level to coordinate the curriculum. All this means that I have a whole lot more faith the Cooke is a place where kids can really thrive, both in terms of social-emotional development and academics, in the early and later years. I know the principal wishes that the DCCAS were being given again this year so that the changes in student achievement could be documented.

Good luck with your decision! If you have more questions, please ask.

My daughter is finishing PK4 at Cooke this year. I also know a bunch of the PK3 kids.

In PK4, the materials are largely the same as any play based preschool program. We use the Creative Curriculum, which is integrated with IB units and themes. Right now, because it is spring, her class has been studying plants. They planted seeds and care for them and watch them grow. They read books about gardening and spring. They practice pre-reading with similar materials and are currently in small reading groups. The centers change based on the unit. During the clothing unit, dramatic play center was a laundromat. During the markets unit, it was a grocery store.

I like all three teachers, as does my daughter. They are all returning next year as far as I know.

Community participation was good last year and I'm anticipating that it will be even stronger next year. Please email HDCookePTA@gmail.com for information on how to get involved if you'd like. If you have specific questions, I will try to answer later today.

I hear good things about Wilson but wouldn't choose it over Cooke personally, due to location.

HD Cooke is an IB school if that makes a difference to you. JO Wilson is adding SEM next year if that makes a difference to you either.

This is OP. Both schools are in the same direction towards my job except that JO Wilson starts towards the beginning of my commute to work and HD Cooke is 5 min. Closer to my job. I did take notice of the test scores and took a visit of the school and did like the renovation of the school, but besides that I like that the classes are separate (PK4) is not combined with the PK3 class and the diversity. If there are current parents who have children at HD Cooke can you please share your thoughts about the teachers, students, PK4 academics, and community and Participation participation.

My child attends Cooke. I am happy to answer any questions you may have. We've had a great year there, but I've heard good things about Wilson too. Is one better for your commute? They are pretty far from one another.

What are the factors you are considering? e.g., commute, facilities, test scores, neighborhood, aftercare...

My child currently is attending JO Wilson but was matched in the lottery for HD Cooke for PK4. I am confused if whether to stay or move on.