Have you seen the latest test scores from Ventura Schools? Ventura Unified Schools are kicking B#$&*tts and taking names! Their individual school scores are going through the roof, and their schools when compared to schools of similar demographics are equally as good.

Amazing...

Look at Foothill Technology High School. This is a school that caters to students interested in science and technology. This school scored a 10 out of possible 10 on the API. When compared to schools with similar enrollment demographics - A winner again with a 10!

What's going on at Foothill and other Ventura Schools?

They follow the same state standards as other districts...

They have the same budgetary run-ins with the state as other districts...

The City is ethnically as diverse or more diverse than most other county districts save maybe Oxnard...

Their kids have equal the distractions with TV, Video Games, the Beach, extracurricular activities and the like.

Yet, their scores are through the roof.

County Superintendant Charles Weis even took some time off from bashing the Governor to comment that other schools: "...can look at what strategies they're using, what materials, then adopt those and bring them back to their school".

As a parent, I want my schools adopting the strategies and tools needed to bring about successful and educated students. I would also want to be at the table when those are decided. Wouldn't you???

What strategies are Ventura schools using, and why aren't the other districts taking field trips to observe? What do you think your schools are doing, and/or not doing to improve?

What say you?

Tim