The National Center for Educational Achievement (NCEA) recently honored several Leander Independent School District schools as part of its 2009 Just for the Kids Campaign for Higher Performing Schools in Texas. LISD’s Cedar Park High School, Canyon Ridge, Cedar Park and Running Brushy middle schools and Laura Welch Bush, Rutledge and Steiner Ranch elementary schools received this notable distinction. I mention this award today because it represents the gains LISD is making on two of our most important fronts: closing the achievement gap and preparing students for college and careers.
NCEA, whose mission is to help students reach college- and career-readiness, takes two factors into consideration when analyzing schools: academic achievement growth and college- and career-preparedness. Schools recognized for growth are closing the achievement gap by earning greater improvement rates compared with similar schools. For its improvement rates, Running Brushy Middle School was selected for NCEA’s award.
Schools identified for their college- and career-readiness initiatives are in the top five percent of schools in Texas, based on the percentage of students scoring at or above NCEA’s targets. Cedar Park High School, Cedar Park Middle School and Steiner Ranch and Rutledge elementary schools were recognized for these indicators.
Laura Welch Bush Elementary and Canyon Ridge Middle School were recognized for both their improved performances and college- and career-readiness initiatives.
I would also like to mention that educational gains are not limited to these seven campuses. Indeed, every LISD campus is committed to these same goals. Systems, processes and programs are in place across the district to ensure that every school is closing the achievement gap and preparing students for life after high school.
For instance, our students are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of being prepared for their future on their own initiative. Vista Ridge High School’s DECA chapter (a club for marketing students) recently proclaimed January 2010 Financial Literacy Month at their campus and have made it their mission to educate their peers about financial responsibility. The practicality of money management, particularly in the days of sky-rocketing consumer debt, is invaluable. LISD is very proud of VRHS’ DECA club for proactively taking the steps to educate their peers on this very important life skill.
Indeed, when it comes to knowledge necessary for life-long success, many of our campuses are noting similar examples of students taking ownership in opportunities made available to them. More and more they are keeping their futures in mind as they consider activities such as LISD’s upcoming COOL (Career Opportunities On Location) Week. Students are doing this because LISD’s culture is filled with strategies for preparing students for college and careers. Teachers, principals and staff at all of our elementary, middle and high schools are keeping college- and career-readiness messages at the forefront.
And so, let me say again that LISD is exceedingly proud of the accomplishments of the schools honored by NCEA, and we applaud everything they’ve done to attain their achievements. We are honored as a district to have so many of our schools recognized by NCEA. Truly, we are on the right path—we are making gains, and we are building bridges. But as we journey forward, know that LISD is unwavering in our commitment to provide the very best education and opportunities for all of our students.
Have a great day!