Comment by Balletmom on July 2, 2008 at 6:16am

Very true- each child has different needs. And parents tend to be very protective of their choices of schools as if someone might think they are a bad parent for whatever choice they made.

Comment by Gemini Goddess on July 2, 2008 at 9:03am

I was part of the public school system for most of my educational career. And I didn't always go to the 'best' school in the city. What I learned is this - if you don't make the best of whatever school you are at, then you are truly missing out on some amazing experiences and growth.

Comment by Ron Da Bomb on July 2, 2008 at 9:24am

There are more choices these days than there was when I went to school (Chaparral Elementary, John Adams Mid, West Mesa/Del Norte High). Back in the day ('85 grad), you went in-district. More choices is better, in my opinion. I also agree with Gemini Goddess that wherever you go, make it great (speaking as a parent, it is my responsibility to help my children get the most out of their education).

FWIW, we decided on private school for our kids through elementary school, and now we are going to send them to a charter school (Cottonwood Classical) for 6th grade and on. It is a startup this year, so it will involve some growing pains, but we are excited to give it a try!

Comment by Dianne P. on July 2, 2008 at 3:33pm

I think a huge part of what makes a school successful or not has to do with the amount of involvement the parents and community are willing to put towards the success of the school. People complain all the time about one thing or another regarding their schools, but I wonder how much time they have actually spent in the school. Do they volunteer in their children's classes? If their schedule doesn't allow volunteering during the school day, are they actively involved in the PTA with some other aspects of the school?

My kids go to Hubert H. Humphrey, and it's a great school. When I was interviewing pediatricians, one doctor (at UNM Children's Hospital) actually commented on what a great reputation HHH has. It's not the newest school. There's still classrooms in portable buildings. But there is a sense of community at the school that goes throughout the neighborhood, and I think translates into the experience the children are getting from the school.

And I do volunteer in both of my children's classes, even if just for a few hours every week. I know the names of all the kids in their classes, and they know mine. I know what is going on not only in their classroom, but in the school, because I make it a priority to be involved in my children's education. I think that can make any school a better place.

Comment by Brent Morris on July 2, 2008 at 4:56pm

I have a second-grader at Bandelier Elementary and have been impressed with the education he is receiving there. He was tested and placed in the gifted program which is a one hour a day hands-on experience in another classroom that adds to his perspective. I realize this is not available for everyone but both his main classroom and gifted teachers have all shown personal care and thoroughness to addressing needs. The classroom size of 20 or so students to teacher is a much better ratio than the L.A. (CA) School District, where he attended kindergarten. The school has a supportive neighborhood feel, with many parents participating in their children's activities and events. My wife has volunteered in the classrooms and on field trips and I agree with Dianne, that personal involvement in your child's education is extremely important. Finally, the grassy soccer field is a place for kids and adults of all types to play after school.

Comment by Flaming Liberal on July 2, 2008 at 6:11pm

Diane and Brent hit it on the head. I feel that each school has its pros and cons. Without parental involvement, it does not matter what school (private or public) the child goes to. The success of the child does not depend on the school, it depends on his/her upbringing and how much the parents have participated. If you feel the school is not doing enough for your child, then make your own assingments for them. Volunteering is the best way to really know what is going on at your child's school. If you are not able to participate at the school, talk to others that are. There are no laws that say you can't hold your child to a higher standard and work with them at home.

Comment by Monica on July 2, 2008 at 9:25pm

Here is another great Charter School that is starting up. It is called Corrales International. Check out the website http://www.corralesinternationalschool.org/

Comment by the boy on July 2, 2008 at 10:47pm

@ Brent - I'm a proud product of Bandelier, and that's about the only context I'll use "proud" and "product of (school name here)".

@all of you - thanks! Great stuff, especially on the parent involvement meaning as much/more than school selection bit.

Comment by Dianne P. on July 4, 2008 at 3:15pm

@Brent - I'm also a proud product of Bandelier and its gifted program. When I went there, many MANY years ago, they actually bussed kids in from other parts of the city for the gifted program, maybe because it was the only one back then?

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