Choosing downtown public schools is a good thing

It is the first week of school, and our children are starting at two of Charleston's downtown public schools. Our oldest son is attending kindergarten at Memminger School for Global Studies: A University Partnership. Our youngest son is joining other 3- and 4-year-olds at Mitchell Math and Science's new Montessori program.

The choices of children's educational options are the most important decisions parents can make. We are taking a chance on these new programs after careful consideration for each of our boys. Despite the headlines and negative press often given to our downtown schools, we have gotten to know the staff at these schools and feel we are making the best choices for our family.

We want caring teachers who are willing to go the extra distance for their students. We see them in these schools. Rather than assuming one style fits all, these teachers are ready to differentiate their lesson plans and meet children where they are. Both of our boys need the guidance and direction of strong teachers to inspire their strengths and help them work through challenges.

We hold up the principals at these schools to be the best anywhere. They do not simply talk about the need for change and partnerships; they push their staff and school communities to step up to the plate. Reform does not happen overnight, but Anthony Dixon and Dirk Bedford are committed to making their schools better for all students. It is exciting to be a part of the beginning as Memminger and Mitchell become the schools of choice for other downtown families and the entire district.

These schools are relatively small with around 350 students from child development to sixth grade. Grants and funding from the school board have brought in tremendous resources. They are committed to small class sizes, and there is a real family feeling with staff, teachers, parents, and students. It is very comforting to know our children are only blocks away in schools where we are welcome to stop by for lunch and volunteer anytime.

There is poverty in these schools, and in turn there are challenges associated with poverty. However, my children do not live in poverty and there is no evidence to suggest poverty can be caught from classmates. On the contrary, research shows it is healthy to mix students from different social classes. We want our children to know money is not everything, poverty in finances does not mean poverty of intellect or other resources, and having resources does not mean we cannot learn from others' experiences.

Some may find it unsettling or threatening to send young children into new situations where they will be the minority in terms of race and class. But, our young boys accept people as people and choose friends based on common interests and behaviors -- not race.

Elementary school is the perfect time to reinforce their people-reading skills and world views before bodies start changing and outward appearances become so important. Their world, including future colleges and employers, will demand that they understand life in the majority and the minority.

The 21st century economy they inherit will want them not only to know foreign languages, but even more importantly to be comfortable interacting with different people and cultures. We want our children prepared for this diverse world by living it, not simply hearing or reading about it.

Financially, we could send our children to private schools, but why not send our expectations with our tax investment and put those dollars to work for us? So far, we have found the schools to be appreciative of our money but also our time and energy as parents. Traveling and specialized learning opportunities are also easier to afford without the extra costs of private school tuitions.

We do not know what this year will bring or how our children's educational needs will change over the years. We do know this: Right now they are just down the street, in exciting new programs, meeting a diverse group of new friends, surrounded by caring teachers and staff. And that seems like a great place to start.

JULIE HUSSEY
Wentworth Street
Charleston