School Choice

I think we've found it.

I'm hesitant to say, but when I think of what I saw at the International School of Louisiana
the other day, I feel tremendously confident about BOTH Ana and Elliot in that environment.

Diversity in the truest form I've seen. Teachers and Children from farms in El Salvador or Belle Chasse (ah, exotic Belle Chasse) next to Muslim or Asian or New Orleanian kids discussing Sherlock Holmes in Spanish. Having an honest-to-God literary discussion in a language other than their native one, working in cooperative groups, having spirited and lively debates with open and kind teachers. Children of all ability levels in an integrated environment working together and getting the services they need. No special ed classrooms. Because the staff is so diverse, and come from cultures where the children in the class are simply the children in the class, the inclusion wierdness so common in our public school system seemed non-existent. I spoke to the special services coordinator who seems like a fabulous individual, but then again, I had that feeling from every staff person I met or saw in action.

Did I say that it's free too? And that feels absolutely irrelevant. I would certainly pay for my children to be a part of this experience.

I feel fortunate to have worked in several environments where staff work together under a common vision. Not only do I see that at ISL, but I see parents who look like me, who I want to work with to create a place.

I'm still doing my homework. If anything I want options. But it just feels damn comforting to find a solid one.