New Plymouth Story Inspiring

The New Plymouth School District has all the reasons for having low reading scores, with a high poverty rate and limited resources. About 15 years ago, test scores were reflective of the economic conditions; only about 40 percent of kids in kindergarten through third grade were reading at grade level. But according to Rep. Ryan Kerby, who recently retired after 21 years as school superintendent there, the district was fortunate to have educators with big ideas. The district adopted an aggressive reading program, set measurable goals and provided “fun” financial incentives for teachers. Today, New Plymouth is among the top schools in the state for reading. “We’ve been in the 90 percent range every year for about the last eight years,” Kerby said. So, how did they do it?/ Chuck Malloy , Idaho Politics Weekly. More here.

Question: What’s the take-away from this story for you?