D.C. Schools Chief Institutes Tough Changes, Weathers Controversy

After one year on the job, Washington, D.C., schools chief Michelle Rhee has slated schools to close and planned personnel changes to help boost the struggling education system. John Merrow reports on her efforts. JOHN MERROW: For these teachers in Washington, D.C., the end of the year was bittersweet. TEACHER: Transition time for us. JOHN MERROW: Their school, P.R. Harris, was closing for good. Principal Jeffrey Grant decided to treat the staff to an afternoon cruise on the Potomac. JEFFREY GRANT, Principal, P.R. Harris Educational Center: Let's go out here and celebrate each other and find ways to come together, celebrate our successes. JOHN MERROW: It was a welcome break from what had been a stressful year for many. TEACHER: Oh, today is a sad day for me, a very sad day. I've been in this building for 24 years. JOHN... [read full story]