http://www.austinchronicle.com/feedback/2013-09-12/1476707/
ARS Works For My Daughter
RECEIVED Thu., Sept. 12, 2013
Dear Editor,
OK, we get it. You don't like AISD or the Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders [“In the Name of Ann Richards,” News, Aug. 30]. We've heard this story before. I'm sorry someone lost her job. I'm sorry someone's feelings are hurt; but guess what? This happens in the corporate world. My employer did not get excited when I announced my pregnancy, and I was let go after airing my thoughts in what, at the time, I thought was a reasonable and intelligent manner. Guess what, it doesn't matter. An employee that expresses their unhappiness is marked as an at-risk employee. Every company has a list of unhappy employees. This is not news.
As a new parent at ARS, I have yet to experience the things you're accusing the school of. My daughter went through the same rigorous process to apply to the magnet schools just like all the other kids. She worked her heart out. My college applications were much easier. I watched as equally, if not more deserving kids did not make the lottery. It was difficult to see the disappointment.
Remember this is a voluntary process. We all are aware of this process and are willing to take the chance so our kids can excel. If it's the fact that you feel all kids in the AISD district should have the same chance, then find a solution. But keep in mind, not all students want to make the effort, not all want to go to college. If you feel that the lottery process is rigged, show us. If you feel the lottery process is unfair, find a better way. If you think the attrition rate is unacceptable, keep in mind that everyone has their own reasons for leaving. If you just don't like single-sex schools, then that is your opinion. I have mine, and I like the idea. We are both entitled to our opinions.
But understand this: My daughter is so much happier right now. I can't describe the change in her. She loved her elementary school, but as a smart kid, she was ostracized by her peers. Now she's in an environment that she feels comfortable in. So, for every person with their own unhappy tale, there is one with a happy tale. Interview us. Better yet, give me a few years and check back then. I promise, I'll be honest.
OK, we get it. You don't like AISD or the Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders [“In the Name of Ann Richards,” News, Aug. 30]. We've heard this story before. I'm sorry someone lost her job. I'm sorry someone's feelings are hurt; but guess what? This happens in the corporate world. My employer did not get excited when I announced my pregnancy, and I was let go after airing my thoughts in what, at the time, I thought was a reasonable and intelligent manner. Guess what, it doesn't matter. An employee that expresses their unhappiness is marked as an at-risk employee. Every company has a list of unhappy employees. This is not news.
As a new parent at ARS, I have yet to experience the things you're accusing the school of. My daughter went through the same rigorous process to apply to the magnet schools just like all the other kids. She worked her heart out. My college applications were much easier. I watched as equally, if not more deserving kids did not make the lottery. It was difficult to see the disappointment.
Remember this is a voluntary process. We all are aware of this process and are willing to take the chance so our kids can excel. If it's the fact that you feel all kids in the AISD district should have the same chance, then find a solution. But keep in mind, not all students want to make the effort, not all want to go to college. If you feel that the lottery process is rigged, show us. If you feel the lottery process is unfair, find a better way. If you think the attrition rate is unacceptable, keep in mind that everyone has their own reasons for leaving. If you just don't like single-sex schools, then that is your opinion. I have mine, and I like the idea. We are both entitled to our opinions.
But understand this: My daughter is so much happier right now. I can't describe the change in her. She loved her elementary school, but as a smart kid, she was ostracized by her peers. Now she's in an environment that she feels comfortable in. So, for every person with their own unhappy tale, there is one with a happy tale. Interview us. Better yet, give me a few years and check back then. I promise, I'll be honest.
Kim Kendrick
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