June 11, 2009

RE: Parental Notification for NCLB assessment results and school choice

Dear Flynn Family,

In April, the Vermont Department of Education identified Flynn School as a school in need of improvement based upon student performance on state tests in math and reading. Flynn School did not make adequate yearly progress (AYP) for math students who qualify for free and reduced lunch (SES.)

Statewide, 67% of elementary students in grades 3,4,5 met the standard on the Math NECAP tests. Although 61% of Flynn School students 3-5 met the standard in math, only 45% of our economically disadvantaged children met the standard in math. It is this discrepancy that we must remedy.

As a result of not making AYP, we are required to offer choice to other Burlington Elementary Schools who did make AYP. This means that if you are interested in sending your child to a school in Burlington that has not been identified for school improvement, you may request Edmunds Elementary for the coming year. The testing results of this school are available at the school or on line at The VT Department of Education. The district uses CCTA for transportation to school. If you are interested in learning more about this option, please contact Superintendent Jeanne Collins at 865-5332.

You may be aware of the many things we are already doing to improve student progress in math, reading and writing. These initiatives include a new math program, Bridges, a homework club and a data approach to address students demonstrating need. We are continually reflecting on our curriculum and instruction in grade level teams and as a whole staff to ensure that it adequately meets the needs of all our children.

We are updating our action plan to continue to improve our focused assistance for students who are not progressing, as we would like. We would like to have parents involved in this process. Please contact me if you would like to be involved our school improvement efforts

I am proud of the work that the Flynn staff does to make school a successful experience for all children. Please contact the school if you are interested in helping or if you want more information. You can contact me at 864-8478.