Raising the bar for Education in Baltimore City

By: Cory McCray

This was a fascinating week in education for me. I had the privilege of speaking at City Neighbors High School located in Northeast Baltimore. Before I begin I would like to thank Founder Bobbi McDonald and Principal Danique Dolly for the opportunity.

I have always been inquisitive about Charter schools because it is something new for my generation. I really haven’t had the opportunity to interact with a charter school on a personal basis outside of graduations and fundraising events. I must say that I walked into the high school and the first thing I noticed was the color scheme. It was decorated with artistic colors, and was warm and very welcoming. The cafeteria had a 70’s look, with very relaxed seating, not like the 12 foot, hard marble benches that I was used to seeing. Next, I noticed the laminate flooring and carpeting throughout the school, unlike the 12 ft by 12 ft plain floor tiles that I am used to seeing. I entered the classrooms saw the new computers, science equipment, and musical instruments that all made this seem as though it was a second home, instead of just a classroom. You could see that the staff and children took pride in their projects as they were displayed proudly on the outside walls of the classroom and I must say that there were some different and interesting pieces of work. What I am trying to express is as I walked through that school, I wished that every child could experience that same type of ambience and education if they choose.

I then entered the auditorium where I would deliver my presentation to the students, but before I presented I listened to Principal Dolly address the students. He gave them praise, as he read a report about Baltimore City schools attendance record and how in comparison these 9th and 10th graders were leading the charge with over 90% attendance on record. In my mind, I could understand why the attendance record was so high, because to me it didn’t seem like school; it seemed like a home away from home. As I gave my presentation on dreaming big, working hard, and achieving your goals, I continually reminded them that their future is in their hands and to not let anyone take that away. I attempted to enlighten them on the experiences that I learned from and the successes that can come if you take things away from those experiences. As I wrapped up, I was able to address a group that had questions and feedback about the presentation which was very heartwarming. As they finished with their questions, I began to ask a series of questions myself. Like; how did you get picked for this school? ; What are your thoughts about this school? What part of town are you from? The last question I was addressed, received answers including West Baltimore, down the hill (East Baltimore), Southeast Baltimore, and Northeast Baltimore. I think that the last question really hit home for me, it was encouraging to know that our Baltimore City children had this opportunity!

For more info on City Neighbors High School visit this website

Don't forget to join me on twitter, facebook,youtube, Google +, and website for other highligts!