Georgia's State School Superintendent, Dr. John Barge, released the AYP status for all schools and school districts for the 2010-2011 school year at approximately 10 a.m. this morning. Based on the various requirements of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), the Monroe County School System is among those making Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) for 2010-2011. Monroe County Schools is one of 49 districts where all schools and the district made AYP.
As Superintendent of Schools it is my belief that the success of Monroe County Schools comes from the commitment of our administrators, faculty, staff, students, parents, and community partners as we seek to educate students from Pre-K to 12th grade. Teaching and learning at the elementary, middle, and high school levels are foundational for students receiving a high school diploma. As we continue to meet the requirements set forth in ESEA, the administration, faculty, and staff of Monroe County Schools realize our greater challenge becomes ensuring students have the requisite knowledge and skills they need to transition into the workforce, military, technical colleges, and/or four year colleges/universities.
Dr. J. Ray Grant, Jr., Chairman of the Monroe County Board of Education, expressed his appreciation for all of the hard work that took place to support students graduating with a high school diploma which helps our community and economy. Dr. Grant stated, "Our staff continues to show perseverance in striving to reach the increasing goals set forth in AYP. This summer many staff members assisted students in preparation to retake the CRCT or GHSGT, as well as complete graduation course requirements. The true benefactors of our efforts (the Board of Education, employees of the Board, parents and community members) are the students who graduate with a high school diploma."
Board member Mr. Phil Walker stated he is "thrilled and proud of the efforts of our instructional staff and students. This is a tremendous achievement that provides evidence of the work our people do for the children of Monroe County."
Board member Mrs. Tammy Fletcher said she wanted to thank all faculty and staff "for all of the hard work that was done to help each school and the system make AYP. What an AWESOME job everyone does to make our schools World Class." She went on to say, "Everyone deserves a pat on the back for ensuring our students get the best possible education. A BIG thank you goes out to all stakeholders of Monroe County Schools for all of your hard work and efforts to help our students!"
Administrators from the central office and building levels are pleased with today's announcement. Each in their on way made statements of "Thank you!" to all of our stakeholders who assisted MCS in achieving this status. As MCS continues to make academic gains, the administration, faculty, and staff realize the critical issue is teaching boys and girls far more than what is needed to pass a statewide standardized test. We have to assist parents in preparing students for life beyond high school.
Respectfully submitted,
Anthony D. Pack, Ed. S.
Superintendent of Schools
