A study of 25 elementary schools showed gains in performance, although critics point out that results vary by school. Schools adopted a phonics-based reading program called Open Court two years ago for elementary students, who spend up to three hours a day reading. The district also added a rigidly structured math program that takes at least an hour daily. The plan included the layoff of 600 teacher aides to hire 200 full-time teachers. Principals are charged with improving student test scores within the district's framework of standards, developing community outreach programs and generating extra money from private sources.
Principals also are in charge of developing their own budgets and hiring teachers.
The district brokered a union contract that removes the power of senior teachers to choose their own schools. A school funding formula also directs more money to schools with many poor students. Project Soar involves a partnership with the University of Arizona and consultation with the Tucson Police Department and Pima County Juvenile Court Center. Students involved in the program have registered lower dropout and higher attendance rates.