Academic Achievement

By T. W. "Rick" Richards

Ensuring the academic success and achievement of ALL of our students is the most important duty that a school board member is entrusted with.

I am proud to serve in a district that is being recognized for its work in educating all children. Our changing demographics reflect the changing demographics across the state, and in many areas of the nation. Our lives are enriched through diversity and culture, and herein lies the greatest opportunity for our students. Of course, there are challenges of language and culture, but in addressing these challenges I look at them as opportunities for appreciating our differences and our similarities, our students will learn to succeed in the ever-changing global society.

The work that has been done so far is paying off as our test scores are on the rise and the achievement gap in narrowing. We must continue:

• Reassessing our programs to ensure they are addressing the needs of the whole child and make corrections as needed.
• Expand the opportunities for our students in college preparatory classes or career pathways
• Work in reducing the dropout rate through innovative ways and ideas, such collaborating with EAROP (Eden Area Regional Occupational Program), which I have serviced on its council for our board for the last seven (7) years, to keep students engaged in school and want to finish their education.