Grade configuration

So, here are my main concerns: Are we making the right decisions for our kids and community? Are we being fiscally responsible? Where is the proof?

While nearly every other district in the state does it, I have yet to see any studies demonstrating the marginal educational benefit of moving 9th graders to Senior High or 6th graders to Junior High. If this is really the very best thing for our students, then fantastic, I'm on board. But I want to see the proof first. Suddenly there are estimates of $6 million in renovations per high school to accommodate freshman, estimates that according to Dr. Dean on June 4th, had been at $0. What changed? I know I have a huge problem with spending $12 million on two schools that are 10 years and effectively 9 years old. The reason for the move, provided by Administration, is to accommodate new State high school graduation requirements, yet those requirements have absolutely no impact on 9th graders. Why are we asking students and families to drastically alter their routines without proof?

In addition to the renovation costs are the expenses related to moving to a trimester system at high school. This idea has been presented to allow students the opportunity to take more elective classes. OK, but at a cost of $400,000-$500,000 per year, it would completely offset the imaginary savings of closing one elementary school. (that's another thing the district has yet to demonstrate) If we don't have the money to address curriculum issues, have to cut library staff and funding, and close schools, perhaps instituting this new program at this time is inappropriate.

The Board of Education accepted the recommendation of the Administration in May to change grade configuration with no more than the Admin's word as proof. To me, that is not acceptable. As our schools are configured now, ninth graders are accommodated at the junior highs without renovations necessary. If we have no funding, let's not create more bills for ourselves.

Below is a link to a recent Duke University study on benefits of junior high/elementary schools vs. middle schools. Very interesting.

http://www.pubpol.duke.edu/research/papers/SAN07-01.pdf