Anonymous wrote:This discussion has gone in a maddening direction so I'm going to attempt to get it back on track.
I am an upper grade IT parent. As a matter of fact, my DC was in last year's 3rd grade class--the class with the low DCCAS scores that some posters on DCUM seem to take pleasure in citing. I along with the majority of families in that class will be back for the 4th grade. Why, because unlike posters who just cite test scores, I know the kids in that class, I know the families, the teachers and the administrators. I also know my child who enjoyed an incredible learning experience last year. That class took the brunt of the first year charter bumps and lumps and still I watched a metamorphosis occur in those children who ranged the full learning spectrum--from autism, to severe behavioral and emotional issues, to super bright, high achievers. The test scores don't tell the story of that classroom or the incredible work done by the teachers and staff.
I too used to judge schools by their test scores--even though I said I didn't. I will never do that again. iT is a great school with incredible teachers and a wonderful community of families. Anyone who fails to consider IT because of the DCCAS scores this year will miss out on a great educational opportunity for their child.
PS- We have other options. We're staying because our child had a great year at a great school and we believe it will get better from here.
I am the parent of a younger student at IT. Thank you, PP, for setting the record straight and being such an advocate for our school!