Surviving LAUSD - the Final Chapter

First, let me just say, I apologize for being so remiss in updating this blog. But I do have good news!

I got my daughter enrolled in KIPP LA Prep (www.kipplaprep.org), a charter middle school (grades 5-8) located near downtown L.A. KIPP is a national organization that now has schools nationwide. It was started by two Houston teachers who were also fed up by the system. KIPP has been featured on PBS, 60 Minutes, and other programs.

A colleague and I started calling the school in January of last year. Eventually, they held a meeting in April for all prospective students and parents and by attending that meeting, and submitting our application within the next 48 hours, our kids were guaranteed spots in the fifth grade. I slept like I hadn't slept in months once I turned in that application!

KIPP is an intensive program. They start in August with 3 weeks of summer school (half-days), then their school year schedule is Mon - Thur. 7:20 a.m. - 5 pm, Fridays from 7:20 - noon, and bi-monthly Saturday school from 9-12. It's a lot, but I've been saying for a while now that the current school year system is antiquated and simply not working anymore. I've heard teachers complain about the lack of time - well, then, why are our children getting out of school at 2:30 while most parents are still at work (and most adolescent crime and teen pregnancy occurs during those after-school hours)? My daughter is now taking Art, Music, Math, Reading, Writing (2 separate classes rather than just one English class), Social Sciences (which alternates between Science and History), Technology, and PE. She's also joined the Thespian Club, and we're waiting to see what other electives will be offered in Saturday school.