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Day of Unity at DeWitt Clinton HS, the Bronx

On the road to renewal
New York Teacher
Bruce Cotler
Ballerini oversees the basketball clinic.
Bruce Cotler
A 4-year-old runs with the football as coach Omar Osorio and DeWitt Clinton HS students urge him on.
Bruce Cotler
Elizabeth Stone, a guidance counselor, and Ettman at the event.

Bronx families flocked to DeWitt Clinton HS in the Kingsbridge section on April 25 for flag football, volleyball, basketball clinics, face painting and other amusements as part of the school’s Day of Unity. More than 800 people joined in the festivities, which included information booths by local organizations such as Montefiore Hospital and Good Shepherd Social Services. The event was organized by DeWitt Clinton HS to reintroduce itself to the community as a Renewal School. As part of the DOE’s School Renewal Program, the school will receive more funding and make the transition to a community school providing a range of educational and health services to students and their families. Students will also receive additional instructional time, and teachers will receive more professional development as part of the program. “After 10 years of policies that undermined large schools, we can once again offer curriculum and services that draw students,” Chapter Leader Alan Ettman said. “I hope that we can also set up programs for community children to use our athletic fields.” Chris Ballerini, a social studies teacher and basketball coach, said he was pleased with “the sheer volume of people who came out.” Ballerini said the school already provides adults with financial services workshops and help navigating immigration laws, and there is excitement about “things yet to come,” including after-school programs, tutoring and technology. “It was a great day to celebrate the school and the community,” he said. He noted that the historic school has been around since 1897. “And,” he said, “we’re vibrant and committed to helping make the school work for the next 100 years.”

Related Topics: Struggling Schools