By Erica Pressman, Washington Grantmakers
As the first semester of the DC Public Education Learning Tours draws to a close, I want to thank Banyan Tree Foundation, CityBridge Foundation, DC Public Education Fund and the Community Foundation for bringing these valuable learning opportunities to the local funding community. We covered topics ranging from early childhood to human capital to wraparound processes. We visited schools – most often one traditional public school and one charter – and had conversations with administrators from DCPS, OSSE and the Charter School Board.
We’ve found many reasons for optimism, meeting with outstanding principals and classroom educators, dedicated administrators and experienced curriculum developers. We have seen their passion for ensuring that every child entrusted to them receives a quality education. But these tours do not gloss over the realities that teachers and principals work within – impoverished neighborhoods, violence outside the schools doors, achievement gaps and parents who aren’t involved in their children’s academic lives.
There is much work to be done, but I am more encouraged than ever about the possibilities that exist for our students, and of the importance of collaboration among colleagues.
If you’re interesting in attending, act fast—a few of the second semester tours still have space. Contact Deborah Julian, Banyan Tree Foundation, at djulian@banyan.org to learn more.
> Collaborative for Education Organizing
> WG’s Public Education Working Group
