If your child attends a childcare near the school you want your DC to be enrolled and the enrollment in that school is nor over its capacity, you can apply for COSA. From several parents i know who have kids in title one schools, the teachers are great and enrichment in school for advanced students are offered all the time. It seems mcps puts new and unexperienced teachers in the green zone first and than move them to the red zone school. My DC had experiences with new teachers who really struggle in controling the classroom and delivering teaching materials at the sametime. After a few years they became great teachers. Some stsyed and others are moved to different school.

It is a program that one tests into and wins a lottery in kindergarten and then is bussed to Takoma Park Elementary for 1st and 2nd. 3rd grade is at Piney Branch Elementary. Long bus rides!

My son is leaving Piney Branch (was in the "gifted science magnet" program since 1st grade)

What is this program? Never heard of it. Thanks.

I don't understand wanting to get a COSA for the reason of going to a better school...it has to be very uncomfortable for the kids and parents considering childrens 'school' friends vs. neighborhood friends etc. Who do you play sports with if involved...etc. Just weird all around.

My daughter is in kindergarten this year and loves it. My son is leaving Piney Branch (was in the "gifted science magnet" program since 1st grade) to return back there. I know that Glenallan will both enrich him and support him. I can emphatically recommend the school.

"Does your child like his/her teachers etc?"

Pp you asked - yes DC does. In 1st grade now. dc loved last year and this year teachers as well as several of the specials teachers. My personal favorite is the STEM teacher there who seems to be very creative in what she does with each grade level. Worth at least visiting to see.

The principal at Glenallan is very well-regarded, even on DCUM. The likelihood of getting a COSA is hard to predict. Some people think they're easy to get because there are so many out there, yet there are many, many stories of seemingly legitimate hardships being denied. I wouldn't count on being able to get one unless you have another reason for wanting your child to attend school in Rockville. Which school corresponds with your husband's work address? That one could very well be a stinker too.

There are a lot of things to consider when looking at a COSA. Are you comfortable with your children not attending school with their neighborhood friends? Are you ready to drive out of your way for playdates?