We have a great district and most children are doing very well: CCSD 89 students are above national reading and math averages at all grade levels.
But success for “most” students is not enough. When we look closer at the data, we see some students are not growing at the same rate. If your child is one of the students who is struggling, you know very well that we can't be satisfied with success for "most".
So how do we make sure every single student can reach their educational growth targets?
If there is a group of students who are not making enough growth, we find the strategies and resources to better support their learning. Similarly, when a student is showing accelerated growth, we bring in resources and strategies so they, too, can grow.
Adding supports for one student does not mean we take time or attention away from other learners.
When we discuss equity, we are talking about ensuring every single student has what they need to grow academically. When a ramp is added outside a building, it increases access to the front door without removing the staircase that some people have been using. Similarly, when we give students language supports or provide multiple ways to express mastery, we provide opportunities that benefit each individual learner.
Our teaching staff is ready to meet this challenge because every single student deserves our attention, our expertise, and our care.
Dr. Emily Tammaru
CCSD 89 Superintendent
