No Exodus from Local Schools on Program Improvement

When given the chance to switch their children's schools, parents of students at two local schools under the gun for their standardized-test results decided to remain where they are.

Not one student at  or  has moved to a different school when given the opportunity, said Marco Forster Principal Carrie Bertini.

"I think this speaks volumes about the quality of the faculty, staff and educational opportunities afforded to all of our students," Bertini said. 

at both schools earlier in the month explaining that their schools have entered what is called “program improvement,” which is like being on academic probation.

Despite ever-increasing standardized-test scores, particularly at Marco, the gains were not enough to meet the federal standards of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001. Both schools must now demonstrate two years of meeting test-score benchmarks to exit program improvement.

“I believe these low numbers indicate that the public is gaining trust in our schools,” said Julie Hatchel, assistant superintendent for education services.

The fact that there was no exodus from the two schools also shows that parents are understanding the limitations and flaws of the No Child Left Behind Act, added Hatchel.

“They recognize that indicators of educational success extend beyond what is measured in a single test,” she said.

In the meantime, schools on program improvement receive extra funding. For Marco, that means an additional $1 million it wouldn’t otherwise receive, Bertini has said. She is using the money for extra teachers, technology and offering zero period to more students.