Leigh Dingerson has an excellent article in the most recent issue of ReThinking Schoolsdescribing Michelle Rhee’s history as Chancellor of Washington, D.C. public school.

I was particularly struck with her section on parent engagement/involvement. I’d encourage you to read the whole piece, but here’s one passage:

“She creates lots of opportunities for people to learn what’s going on,” reflects Jill Weiler, a DCPS parent and community organizer. “I think she really does listen. But it doesn’t seem to influence her.” For example, in December 2007, Rhee announced the closing or consolidation of two dozen schools. Parents, teachers, and students were frustrated at Rhee’s failure to inform, much less involve the impacted communities before the announcement. As required by DCPS rules, Rhee subsequently held a series of community hearings at the affected schools, but made few changes to the plan.

It’s obviously not surprising, but it’s just another reason for all of us here in Sacramento to be concerned about her coming arrival here.