SchoolNotes

During a video shoot with DCCompass yesterday, I spoke with the Melissa Martin, the Principal at Scott Montgomery Elementary School in my single member district, about what it means to the kids when the community comes out and works hard to improve the environment in and around the school. She told me it encourages students to work harder at their studies because it makes them feel that a lot of people care about them and their success — and it makes them feel great.

This year's Servathon2008 sponsored by Greater DC Cares accomplished a lot with the help of a horde of volunteers. [ View slideshow ]

One neighbor, outside my SMD and across New Jersey Avenue, actually dug up a dogwood from his own yard to add something special the school campus and spruce up the corner at Fifth & P Streets NW. Scott Montgomery teachers and staff, several neighbors from ANC2C02 and volunteers from around the district came out to do what they could in this annual four-hour blitz that takes place at schools all round the District.

When we work together, there are amazing things we can accomplish. A little elbow grease can really go a long way. Considering the District's truancy rate at public schools, it's good to know that there are things local residents can do have an impact helping to make schools a dynamic engine for empowering neighborhood kids. There are many volunteers who volunteer time at Scott Montgomery for various programs whether it be through KIPP:DC or programs like the girls and guys reading groups.

Schools Chancellor Michelle Rhee will be at Scott Montgomery this week to show how much she cares about the kids there. On Saturday, I ran into of of the third graders who was looking forward to Family Reading Night on Wednesday.

Even Mark Bjorge (above) from Mayor Fenty's Ward 2 Community Services staff came by to lend a hand.