D.C. Public School System

Book excerpt: The purpose of this oversight hearing on the District of Columbia public school system was to welcome the new superintendent, Franklin L. Smith, and to assess the general condition of the school system. Among the problems and issues assessed were the impact of boarder babies entering the school system, the impact on the system of children who were exposed to violence in their homes and neighborhoods, the high dropout rate and overall precarious plight of young African American males, latchkey children, children living in substandard housing, the problems of homeless children housed in shelters, and children in poor health. Some special programs of the system were described with optimism such as Project DAISY for children born to drug-addicted mothers, and Project DAPS that allows principals to purchase their own materials and make building repairs. The new superintendent spoke of his efforts to down-size the administrative side of the system and to upgrade the teaching of math. Education advocates representing community-based organizations spoke about improving the quality of the system's programs throughout the city. A representative of the teacher's union spoke about teacher grievances over pay and length of the school day. The participants' statements are included as well as information on National Merit Program finalists submitted for the record. (JB)