San Diego School Superintendent Terry Grier says he's pleased with the opening of school yesterday. This is the first time Grier is presiding over the district when school is in session.
He says among the changes this year is the opening of a one-of-a-kind music magnet school . He hopes it will help the district compete with private and charter schools. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.
(Sounds of violins squeaking
)
Kindergarteners holding tiny violins take part in their very first violin class at
Crown Point Elementary
in Pacific Beach. The school was converted into music magnet school this year because student enrollment had dwindled.
School Superintendent Terry Grier says so far about 100 more students signed-up. Many come from private schools.
Grier:
So I think this is a good example. If the public schools listen, then we can compete with private schools and we can provide quality education that will interest parents and their youngsters.
The school is also attracting families from the county. First grader Mekai Cross lives in La Mesa but now goes to Crown Point. He says he excited to pick up the violin.
Cross:
It was really easy to, like, play. But the hard part is, to like, hold it with your fingers.
Crown Point almost shut down last year because of its low enrollment.
Ana Tintocalis, KPBS News.
