October 23, 2006 - School Libraries Project

It was an honor to attend this morning's grand opening of the newly renovated Stuart-Hobson Middle School Library. While an incredible amount of work lies ahead in overhauling the other seven libraries scheduled for renewal (Brent, Ludlow-Taylor, Maury, Payne, Peabody, Tyler and Watkins), this morning's event stands as a testimony to what motivated and determined parents and concerned citizens can accomplish. Of special note are the efforts of the School Libraries Project co-chairs, Todd Cymrot and Suzanne Wells. I should point out that all Ward 6 residents should be extremely proud of what the Capitol Hill Community Foundation has been able to accomplish through this effort. However, it is difficult to understand why DCPS must rely on public/private partnerships to provide basic libary services currently available in most public schools around the country. At $15,040 annual spending per student, we should be able to sustain school libraries.