FWIW we started the (extremely lengthy) application process to Doar for PS3 because our kiddo loves performing arts and we thought we could at least decide based on what, if any, other yeses we got. But they needed pages and pages of regular registration info, not just the usual basics for a lottery, so I left it to finish til later. Then I got a couple of reminder emails about it that were full of grammar and spelling errors, and another reminder email that copied all concerned parents (not BCC), so all of our email addresses were revealed to each other. On the one hand, I imagine it's only one or two administrators composing them, not the people who would have daily interaction with my kiddo. On the other hand, we decided to not finish the application because we don't want her going somewhere that's that careless with information.

WEDJ got a very good review from a mom on MOTH. I would copy and paste it here, but that violates MOTH rules.

She said the academics were just OK, but the arts instruction was wonderful. Her child was happy. The homework load wasn't bad.

Anonymous wrote:I thought Hardy was going that route. They have Filmore on their campus. I know DCUM get squirlley when Hardy comes up but it makes sense to make Hardy a feeder school to Ellington. Other schools like Ballou, that have an acclaim marching band ( scholarship opportunity) or Eastern ( they had a decent choir) could benefit from having students already introduced to the arts. Even Wilson has high caliber stage productions could benefit from having young thespians.

Hardy does, not Filmore though; that's an elementary program. Hardy has its own orchestras and every student has instrumental music. I'm not sure there is a charter school out there that matches it on this. Many of their teachers are also teaching in the DC Youth Orchestra, which is another great option to substitute or supplement music. And there is Savoy ES, where Pope transferred from Hardy. The "basic" music DCPS offers (certainly at the ES level) is really good to tell from our experience.