Dear Ferguson-Florissant Parents and Guardians,

During the 2022 session, the Missouri legislature passed SB 681 and SB 662, which require the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to rank local education agencies (LEAs) and schools using the Missouri School Improvement Program Annual Performance Report (APR) scores. In addition, DESE is required to publish a list of schools and LEAs ranking in the lowest five percent. LEAs in the list are required to inform parents and guardians of their appearance.

As a result, the following buildings have been identified as appearing in the bottom five percent based on the 2022 rating and ranking:

• Halls Ferry

• Cross Keys Middle

• McCluer

These scores are based on several factors including statewide assessments, attendance, and subgroup performance. 

As a result of this ranking and to increase learning outcomes for all of our students, we have  taken the following action steps:

• Development of new School Comprehensive Plans.

• Increased student focus in the Imagine Math and Language & Literature supplemental programs.

• Changes in building leadership for the 2023-24 school year.

• Additional professional development.

• Increased community engagement action steps for the 2023-24 school year.

• Strengthened the core curriculum, including implementing a new English Language Arts (ELA) curriculum for the 2023-24 school year.

• Increased support for our teachers and students.

• Increased our Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) intervention plan so all students will receive universal supports to help students reach their potential academically, behaviorally, and social-emotionally.

• Increased student academic focus through the Imagine Math supplemental program.

• Comprehensive tutoring program.

• Engage parents/guardians and our school community in our improvement efforts.

We know it can be startling to see this information. But we are confident the steps we are taking will ensure our students are on the course to receive a high-quality education. During the 2023-24 school year, we will implement our plans, examine a variety of data to ensure we are making progress and regularly report our progress to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.