Nicastro: Lower APR scores show why state took over Normandy School District

(From the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education)

“Lower APR numbers show the need for a fresh start for the children of Normandy,” said Commissioner of Education Chris Nicastro. “As we begin the 2014-15 school year as the Normandy Schools Collaborative, under state oversight, we are determined to improve instruction, curriculum and focus on the educational needs of these students.”

The Normandy Schools Collaborative was formed under state oversight on July 1, 2014. The Collaborative has hired new staff, revised curriculum and provided professional development for faculty and administrators. Schools welcomed students for the 2013-14 school year on August 18.

“We will focus on quality classroom instruction, leadership, and the use of student data to make ongoing decisions,” said Superintendent Ty McNichols. “It is critical that we reverse our academic trends and that our energy and purpose be laser-like on academic improvement.”

The Department believes high expectations, a clear vision and a few focused, high-impact goals will be critical to drive the improvement efforts necessary to bring about positive results.