Lee's Summit R-7 School District earns national "What Parents Want" Award
The Lee's Summit R-7 School District was among 28 Missouri school districts receiving the "What Parents Want" national award, offered by SchoolMatch.
The Ohio-based firm ranks school systems in a national percentile format, making it possible for comparisons by parents, home buyers, corporate leaders, policymakers, educators or realtors using its service. The What Parents Want program recognizes school systems that are making noteworthy efforts to meet the needs of their students and families.
"We are pleased to see this group of Missouri's schools honored by a nationally known firm," said Chris L. Nicastro, Missouri commissioner of education. "We believe these schools, large and small, can serve as role models in how school districts are consistently providing value to parents and students in their communities, as well as those who are considering relocation to Missouri.
A national compilation of more than 95,000 parent questionnaires completed by SchoolMatch clients in 2009 reveals parents most often look for schools systems that are:
o Competitive in academic test scores and academically solid, but not so rigorous as to intimidate their children.
o Accredited.
o Recognized for excellence by a national foundation or by the U.S. Department of Education.
o Competitive in teacher salaries.
o Above average in instructional expenditures on a national percentile basis.
o Above average in expenditures for library/media services on a national percentile basis.
o Known for small class size.
According to SchoolMatch, 16 percent of the nation's public school districts consistently meet the What Parents Want expectations.
Jim Devine is 2010 Missouri Professional Economic Developer of the Year
