Gary R. Feenster, Democratic Candidate for
Ward 7 Councilmember in the
September 12, 2000, Primary
Parents United for the D.C. Public Schools Questionnaire
August 2000

I will seek to insure that each member possess. a proven track record of working with children in a professional capacity such as a teacher, principal, counselor, etc. I think it is important that the individuals selected have a history of success in working with our young people. No, I will not approve an individual base upon academic credentials alone.

2) What is the difference between oversight and micro-management of the school system? What is the role of the Council with respect to public schools since some members of the School Board now have a relationship with the Council? How will you assure that the Superintendent is accountable to the School Board rather than pulled between the Mayor, Council and School Board?

The difference between oversight arid micro-management is stripping appointed managers of their autonomy and authority to make decisions. Oversight is the concept of holding one accountable. While I can hold you accountable, my oversight authority should not interfere with your management responsibilities unless, there is a clear and present indication that your ability to manage is ineffective, compromised or damaged beyond repair. In other words, if one become ineffective as a manager and the operation of our public schools continue to decline in terms of academic achievement, getting our children to school on-time, then an oversight authority should step in and seek the immediate replacement of that manager, appoint an interim manager; or function as a temporary manager until one is appointed.

The City Council should act as an oversight authority. Thy should work with the School Board to insure that funding is made available as requested, they should monitor and insure that funds are allocated and spent appropriately. They should insure that the quality of our schools continue to rise in both academic achievements, environmental improvements, and that the needs of our students are being met on-time and within budget.

In order for our Superintendent to be effective there should be a clear line of authority for which the Superintendent is accountable. We cannot have a Superintendent bouncing between the matrix (City Council, Mayor, Trustees, Control Board, Congress, etc.) of authority here in this city. The Superintendent should report to the School Board or Mayor.

3) What steps would you take to see that the school system's operating budget and capital budget are adequately funded to meet students' needs for a high quality educational program? Please include comments on financing for new school construction and rehabilitation and for funding high quality occupational training/career development opportunities which do not now exist.

As a City Council Representative with oversight authority I will insure that all funds allocated are spent appropriately. I will also insure that our Superintendent has in place an effective plan for alternative means of education to include occupational/career-training opportunities.

4) Our older students have such low achievement levels that will not graduate with competitive skills unless they receive additional support. What are you willing to do to help the school system raise achievement at the high school level? Would you accept differentiated diplomas so that students who do not pass requirements and tests receive a diploma that is different from the diploma for students who do pass requirements and tests?

I recognize that not every student in our school system will be able to pass each and every achievement test. That is why I will want to appoint Board Members and a Superintendent with a proven track record in working with kids, particularly in offering alternative means of education such as occupational/career-training. I will also rate the success of our schools using barometers in addition to test scores. I would not want to separate diplomas based on skills/abilities, however, a Diploma should clearly indicate the type of school completed. A diploma should indicate that a student has meet or exceeded the requirements for the school granting such diploma.

5) If you have children, do (did) your children attend Public Schools?

I had two children graduate-from Anacostia High School and my youngest son is currently enrolled at Jefferson Junior High School.