City schools chief Andr?s Alonso is urging underclassmen at a struggling West Baltimore high school to transfer to other schools midyear - a highly unusual step in keeping with his pledge to hold all schools to high standards.
The system is legally prohibited from closing the 575-student school, Homeland Security Academy, in the middle of the academic year, but Alonso is strongly encouraging students to choose to leave and asking the school board to close it this summer. Students will be able to select from 21 other city high schools that have extra space and are deemed stable.
"I feel this is not a school that is working for kids," Alonso said. "I don't feel any need to be patient when it comes to the future of children."
Problems at Homeland Security run the gamut, from high staff turnover to low student performance. Amid low morale, seven of 28 teachers have been absent more than 10 days this school year. After a slew of fights and bathroom fires, several central office administrators were called in to restore order.
Students and parents learned of the decision in a letter sent home this week, and about 60 parents attended a meeting Wednesday night. Officials said parents for the most part have not been actively involved in the school but the system will make a big push to reach out to them. Parents must sign off on any transfers. The system will hold two high school choice fairs for Homeland Security students and parents next week.
Alonso's decision is likely to send shock waves through the school, part of the Walbrook complex, and the entire system, as he makes good on his vow to hold schools accountable if they don't meet expectations. Depending on how many students decide to leave, teachers will likely be transferred, too. No employees will lose their jobs now, but officials warned that those with expired certification are at risk at the end of the academic year, consistent with district policy.
Jamar Jones, 17, said he'd like to see students with behavior problems moved, but the students who want to learn should stay. As a senior, he has no choice but to remain. "I know it's a bad school and everything, but you can still learn a lot of things out of this school," said Jamar, who hopes to attend college and major in business. "I like the teachers."
