This time last year, the District was working to build itself up after receiving a 9 out of a possible 14 on our Annual Performance Report. Among our many efforts, we revisited the curriculum, monitored student test preparation results, and provided intensive training for teachers through Teach Like a Champion classes. This year, our efforts have paid off and we have a 12 under our belts, pushing us to further our gains and transition into new common core curriculum. When I say “our efforts,” I am referring to Raytown as a single team comprised of the school district, the City, our patrons, and the greater Raytown community. When we chose “Soaring to New Heights” as the theme for this school year, we recognized that it takes the strength of a community to ensure that every student gets the support they need to soar. Through our adoption of Common Core Curriculum, students will benefit from a more rigorous curriculum, relevant to the challenges they will face in college and subsequent careers. Common Core Curriculum will also enable teachers and parents to have a better understanding of what students should be learning, allowing them to collaborate accordingly. While many districts are still in the beginning phases of evaluating and understanding Common Core, our team has been ahead of the curve, implementing new standards across all grade levels. I look forward to watching our students soar to new heights during the 2012-2013 school year.
