To the editor:

In the March 17, 2009 edition of the Panolian, E.J. Bobo stated, “Let’s take a look at the MAARS (Mississippi Assessment and Accounting Reporting System) where do we stand with providing these students (I mean all of our children) support of the No Child Left Behind mandate,  as outlined by the State of Mississippi minimum level achievements.  Our school system has not met the minimum growth requirements as shown by the MAARS especially for high school reading and language.”

At the end of  the 2007-2008 school year, South Panola High School did meet the requirements of No Child Left Behind and had higher passing/proficiency rates than the state in eight out of nine areas. Our graduation rate was SP 78.2%, MS 73.8%; and the completion rate was SP 91.7%, MS 80.0%.

Additionally, our Subject Area Test Scores compared very favorably to the state. (See inset above)

Furthermore, SPHS offers free after school tutorials to help students with their class work, state tests, ACT and online classes. Our tutorial program is each Monday, Wednesday and Thursday until 5:30 p.m. and has transportation provided.

In addition, numerous teachers tutor without additional pay before school, after school, during their lunch and planning times. Flexible scheduling is embedded in our traditional seven period day providing a multitude of both enrichment and credit recovery opportunities for our young people. Our flexible scheduling is made possible through zero period classes that begin at 6:45 a.m. each morning, online classes, and block classes.

Our school is a reflection of our community and these results would not have been possible without our students, teachers, parents and community working together.  To the SPHS faculty, staff and students, you are the greatest and what makes our school a wonderful place to be.

Respectfully,

Dr. Gearl Loden

South Panola High School Principal