Although some improvement in reading test scores was noted in the third grade from 1997 to 1999, the gains cannot be linked to the reading plan, conceded Katy Denson, director of reading and social studies evaluation for the district and author of a new report issued on the impact of the reading initiative. Under the system, teachers are sent computer-generated class lists that note the time each student entered the building. The computer marks students present on the list. If they are missing from class, the teacher fills in a bubble highlighting the discrepancy and sends the sheet back to the office for computer input, reports the paper. Students who try to enter the school building after having cut a class are rerouted to another computer station where a school official reviews their attendance records.
Students receive a warning for the first cut, detention and suspension for multiple infractions.
One high school reported that class cuts have dropped from 1,000 to between 200 and 300 a day. President Clinton in his weekly radio address pointed to the steps states must take to implement a federal funded program targeted to turning around low-performing schools. Schools districts and schools must spend funds on school improvement activities, such as developing and implementing school improvement plans conducting professional development, strengthening curriculum or enhancing parental involvement. Participating school districts also will provide students in low-performing schools with a choice to attend another school within the district, as the budget agreement requires. For example, funds could be used to cover the costs of planning a choice program and conducting outreach to parents.