Trustee Cross stated she continues to be disappointed that there does not seem to be a district approach to student achievement and a district commitment to raising student achievement. She asked Ms. Pringle what are the current shortcomings of the program. Ms. Pringle stated that the Achievement Initiative was initially a grand gesture since the data showed the need to do something, but the district has not done enough in her opinion. More evaluation needs to occur. Due to pressure from outside sources, the district has marginalized the achievement gap by only addressing one group.
Leadership is needed from the top to affect efforts at the building level.
Trustee Rorke asked for additional information on which buildings are not supporting specific achievement initiatives. He also expressed agreement that financial data needs to be included in reports to the Board. He added that evaluation needs to be a must for all programs prior to expansion or addition of new programs. The public has a right to know the costs as well as the results. Ms. Pringle stated that she will focus on awareness, action, and accountability during the next school year.