We’ve all heard it, whether through Jackson-Reed’s “Yale or jail” nickname or the subtle comments about our school being “a little dangerous”. Even though it’s often intended as a joke, it’s blatant racism and classism targeted at Jackson-Reed’s diversity.

JR’s uniqueness stems from its position as the largest public high school in the District, with one of the most diverse populations—around a quarter African American, a quarter Hispanic, and almost 40 percent White—, serving students from a plethora of socioeconomic backgrounds. 

Compared to schools of similar size in Maryland and Virginia suburbs, JR serves almost double the number of minority and low-income students. 

It is also important to note that 26% of JR students are considered “at-risk” by DCPS, who assigns this status to those receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, are homeless or in the foster system, or are a year or more behind in high school. Having a significant “at-risk” population makes JR vulnerable to misconceptions that they cannot adequately provide support for each student. 

At JR, regardless of student backgrounds, an equal education and the tools necessary for success are provided. 

Over 90% of graduates attend college, and the varied class options provide students of all backgrounds the opportunity to learn at their level. Not only is JR’s average SAT score above the DC and nationwide average, but around 88% of students have taken at least one AP exam. 

JR provides a quality education to so many students, but outside perspectives continue to perpetuate the narrative that the school is filled with drugs, fights, and unmotivated students. Frequently, we hear thinly veiled comments about the dangers of JR and rumors about how students walk around high and never attend class. 

In fact, it is often that we will hear dismay at the presence of metal detectors or security guards in the building, and the insinuation that it implies an unsafe and worse school environment. 

Time and time again, JR is portrayed in a negative light, with people often attacking the school and its students. Following a fight against Sidwell after a basketball game a few years ago, people called JR students “aggressive” and “violent”  on social media and DC Urban Moms and Dads (a forum for parents in the DMV), assuming that the sole responsibility for the fight fell on JR. 

This wasn’t the only time rude and borderline racist comments have been posted about JR. Earlier this year an anonymous user on the website posted calling JR “a dump”. In an attempt to defend JR a different poster replied, saying, “most of the kids at JR now live in-boundary.” Even though that user meant well, this comment sheds light on a different side of the issue.

In saying that most JR students are now in bounds, they imply that by reducing the number of out of bounds students – who are predominantly minority students – JR has become a better school. 

Over the past 10 years JR’s demographics have changed greatly. In the 2014-2015 school year Black students made up 43% of the school’s population, almost double the 26% they now represent. 

In conjunction, the white population has risen from 25% to 36%, now making up a plurality. The fact that this change is occurring as public and community views on the school become more and more positive is no coincidence. 

So, next time someone from a private school or suburban public school wants to make a comment about JR being an “urban environment,” they should reflect on what they’re really saying there. It’s not a comment on the quality of education or how well the school is run. Instead, it’s reflective of underlying bias against the school’s population. •