D.C. public schools are in the middle of a $2 Billion dollar modernization plan.

And that's why some people are asking -- why can't they cut the grass?!

At Nalle Elementary School in Southeast, the grass is nearly a foot high. The weeds, even higher -- even though summer school is in session.

At Houston Elementary School in Northeast, kids play basketball in a playground covered with grass up to their knees. It's the same story at Fletcher Johnson on Benning Road.

At Ruth K. Webb Elementary School in Northeast, it looks like the grass hasn't been cut since school let out.

 "That ain't no grass out there. That's more weeds than anything else," said James Burton.

For Tamisha Miller, It's more than an eyesore. It means finding another playground where her three little ones can run around.

"I want my kids to have somewhere to play. It's terrible. It's terrible," she said.

 Burton says he takes responsibility for his weeds, and can't understand why the school district can't do the same.

 "Don't look like nothing. Don't look like nothing. I haven't seen a mower in -- I don't know when now," said Burton.

"They should keep the grass nice for them -- a lot of times they be out there playing on that grass."

 

Across town in Northwest, it's a different story. Outside Wilson High School not only is the grass cut, but they're trimming the trees and painting the driveways as well.

 

In response, the District tells ABC 7's Caroline Lyders that it's in a transition period -- with the city taking over mowing responsibilities from the schools.

As for residents, they don't care who's in charge. They just want to see the job get done.

"Maintain, keep it cut, keep the school grounds clean, as well as the schools. Period," said Sharon Banks.