Year in Review: Top Education Stories of 2011

This week Carroll Gardens Patch will look back at some of the biggest stories that affected the neighborhood in 2011.

We begin today with education. The neighborhood's schools — including P.S. 29, P.S. 32, P.S. 58, and the School for International Studies—are a frequent source of both pride and controversy. This year was heavy on the latter as financial scandals, citywide budget cuts, and the proposed opening of a new charter school rubbed many parents the wrong way.

P.S. 29 rocked by embezzlement

The year began with a scandal at PS 29 when PTA treasurer Providence Hogan was accused of embezzling school funds. , but it took a few more months for the full allegations to come to light. In March, the city of stealing approximately $100,000 from the PTA, writing checks to herself to cover personal expenses and the costs of her business, Providence Day Spa in Boerum Hill. Inspired by a column in the New York Times, however, and offered loans to help her stay afloat. The saga drew to a close in November, as . She will pay back the remaining money over the next two years.

Arabic high school moves back to Boerum Hill

Starting in 2012, Khalil Gibran International Academy will move to a building on Schermerhorn Street, . The only public school in New York that teaches a combined Arabic and English curriculum, Khalil Gibran has been a frequent source of controversy since it’s founding in 2007. The founding Principal, Debbie Almontaser, was forced out before the school even opened, only to win a lawsuit two years later accusing the city of discrimination. The school has moved three times in its short history, and officials are hoping that the new location will give it a permanent home near the heart of Brooklyn’s Arab Community.

St. Ann's students vandalize playground at P.S. 29

A fire set by local students ruined brand new playground equiptment at P.S. 29 in May. The fire was later describe as a Repairs were paid for by the student's parents, who donated anonymously.

Success Academy charter school faces fierce resistance

A proposal to open a charter school in Cobble Hill overcame vigorous protests to A passionate group of community members voiced opposition to the school, Critics of the plan argued that the Charter Academy would siphon funds from the neighborhood’s existing schools, while monopolizing limited space. Yet their complaints fell on deaf ears, as the PEP voted 12-1 in favor of the school at a hearing in mid-December.