Fall, 2009

Dear Parent or Guardian,

Under the federal No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) of 2001, each state is required to assess all school districts to determine if each district has made adequate yearly progress (AYP) toward meeting the academic testing standards and additional measures set by the state. AYP decisions are based on the results of state testing in communication arts and math and district’s attendance rate and graduation rate. If the district has not made AYP for two consecutive years in any one of the four areas, it is considered “in need of improvement.”
Based upon our most recent MAP test results we have been designated as a district in need of improvement because some of our sub-group students failed to meet the state standards. This designation does not mean we are not meeting the needs of our students. In fact, we are one of more than 250 schools or districts in Missouri to be so classified. Many of these districts, including Belton, have been recognized for excellence in other areas.
We will submit a plan for improvement to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) in Jefferson City. The plan will summarize how we intend to help our low performing sub-groups meet the state standard in the future.
All parents can help their students be successful on the MAP exams by understanding the test, supporting good attendance and encouraging them to graduate on time. We hope you will get to know your child’s teacher(s) and principal and work with them to have a successful school year. If you haven’t joined PTA we encourage you to become active in this great organization. Also, we encourage you to consider becoming a school volunteer or YouthFriend by contacting Beth Knott (348-1159).
Thank you for your support of the Belton School District and for working with us to educate your children. If you have questions about NCLB or AYP please call 348-1554.

Sincerely,

Michael Slusher, Ph.D.
Deputy Superintendent
Pupil Services