Reforming the District's Troubled Schools + Turning Classical Music Upside Down

REFORMING THE DISTRICT'S TROUBLED SCHOOLS: The principal of a troubled middle school in Anacostia was fired this week, amid reports of disorder and violence against students and teachers. The Chancellor's office contends the termination is an example of the new accountability standards in the school system. But many educators feel the principal has become a scapegoat, and that she was held to unrealistic standards. We explore the trouble at Hart Middle School, and what it says about the state of education reform in the District. (13 min.) TURNING CLASSICAL MUSIC UPSIDE DOWN: He is not what most people expect from a classical music composer. Whether you've followed his career since he first appeared on NPR more than fifteen years ago, or whether you've never heard of him -- —jo introduces you to a man who defies expectations and helps everyone appreciate classical music in new and unexpected ways. (38 min.)